The Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA) and its members have embraced the true essence of the holiday season — giving back. In a testament to the spirit of giving, VICA raised over $23,000 to support families in need across Vancouver Island. This significant amount was generated by VICA’s two longstanding holiday initiatives: the Grocery Gift Card program and Holiday Toy Drives, with donations of $13,000 and $10,000 respectively.

The Grocery Gift Card program, fueled by $13,000 worth of donations, aims to alleviate the persistent challenges faced by families in meeting basic food necessities — especially given the current cost of living on Vancouver Island. Funds raised are used to purchase gift cards, which are then distributed to Vancouver Island elementary schools, ensuring that families in need of a little assistance receive help.

“Time after time, VICA Members’ commitment to Vancouver Island communities shines brightly through our holiday initiatives,” remarked Rory Kulmala, CEO of the Vancouver Island Construction Association. “The unwavering support of our members empowers us to directly impact the lives of families in need, especially during these challenging times.”

Recipient schools include Ruth King Elementary in Langford, Tillicum in Saanich, George Jay and Oaklands Elementary Schools in Victoria, Georgia Avenue Community School in Nanaimo, and Cedar Elementary in Campbell River. Each elementary school received $2,150 worth of grocery gift cards to distribute to families in their communities.

“Our members’ enthusiastic participation in VICA’s Grocery Gift Card program and Toy Drive reflects their commitment to fostering happiness and goodwill within our communities,” added Stuart Cuthbert, VICA Board Chair. “In the face of rising costs in nearly every facet of our society, our members understand that they have the power to make a difference in our communities – which I believe is reflected in these two donations.”

In addition to the grocery gift card program, $10,000 worth of new, unwrapped toys were collected at both VICA offices and donated to CFAX’s Santa’s Anonymous, The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive, and the Parksville Society of Organized Services, alongside a donation to the Ladysmith Resource Centre.

Funds for the grocery gift card program were raised through VICA’s Annual Christmas Luncheon, held on December 15th at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney, BC. Members contributed through sponsorships, ticket sales, 50/50 tickets, and cash donations.

For a complete list of VICA Member toy donors, visit www.vicabc.ca

Pictured (L-R): Rory Kulmala, VICA CEO, Petra Eggert, Principal, Oaklands Elementary School. 2023

MEDIA CONTACT

Owen O’Rourke

Manager, Marketing & Communications
Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA)
owen@vicabc.ca | 250-800-1722