The CNHA
runs on donations and volunteer labour. We are a registered charity and
can give you a tax receipt for financial donations or for donations in
kind.
- If
you would like to donate your time and labour by volunteering, click here.
- If you would like to donate used items or food, click
here.
- If you would like to make a financial donation, click here.
How to Volunteer
The
CNHA is an association of neighbours, and we only have one part-time
staff member. Every volunteer is invited to do what they like doing, or
do best. Some of us volunteer fixing up the Old Firehall; some are good
with youth; some are good at organizing events or administrative tasks;
and some help out at the garage sales and free store. We plan to expand
the training workshops for volunteers who work with youth or who deal
with people in need. We also have plans for special workshops, so if you
have a particular talent that you would like to share with others, then
let us know.
To
volunteer, contact us by e-mail or phone at the contact
info below. We have a volunteer form that you can fill out, and our
Program Coordinator will get in contact with you with training
opportunities and with information on what events or committees you can
volunteer in. Even a few hours a month can make a big difference.
Please
note that volunteers who work with youth must provide a current Criminal
Record Check, and this process can take a few weeks.
How to Donate Used Items &
Food
Here
are some of the items that people donate. We are a registered charity, so
if the item has any value above a certain amount we are able to provide you
with a tax receipt for the value of the item.
-
Computers & Monitors: We are a bit swamped with old computer
parts, so please make sure your computer is Windows XP compatible (or the
equivalent in Macintosh) and that your monitor is in good working condition.
- Clothing: We accept clean clothing in good condition. Children's
and men's clothing is especially needed.
- Household items: We accept all sorts of items, from wooden
spoons to a queen sized bed. Some of the items are sold at our
fundraising garage sales to help pay the bills, and other items may be
donated to a family in need.
- Food: We are not a food bank and do not store very much food,
but we do sometimes give out food on an emergency basis, and appreciate
donations of food items. We have freezers to store the food that may be
perishable.
- Special Items: Sometimes we make special donations. For example,
at Christmas and other times, we accept wish lists from families in need
and then arrange an "Adopt a Family" program, where anonymous
volunteers buy or donate those items on the family's list. Please contact us if you are interested in joining this
fun activity.
How to Make a
Financial Donation
Although
we have recently received government grants to buy specific equipment,
the funds to pay day to day bills that keep our House in operation comes
in the form of garage sales, rentals, car washes, and individual
donations. Your donation will probably be used to pay off a bill within
days of donating! So each donation, no matter how small, will be
appreciated. Since we are a registered charity, you will receive a tax
receipt for your contribution.
You
can make a financial donation at the office downstairs while we are open.
If you prefer to mail in a cheque, please include your current contact
information so that we can send you a tax receipt. Please make cheques
payable to "Cowichan Neighbourhood House Association".
