The first week of the fall session raised a lot of heavy issues that are facing British Columbians.
The number of deaths due to the opioid crisis continues to climb, with no plan in sight; the lack of preparation by the government for the heat dome that led to 570 deaths and condemnation from Human Rights Watch; the stubbornness of COVID-19 and government’s patchwork approach; and the continued impact on rural communities from the wildfire season.
READ MORE: RCMP respond to two suspected opioid overdoses in one day in Williams Lake
That’s why this past weekend was so rewarding, as it provided an opportunity to remember we have so much to be grateful for. I know that the times have been challenging and I know that for some the price of Covid-19 and fires has been high.
We have to be thankful to all of the people and organizations that help us through those kinds of difficult times. The list is a long one.
There are all of our volunteer firefighters who for no other reason than wanting to give back have volunteered to be on those front lines.
Seniors’ advocates and volunteers who have brought companionship to our elders at times that we have been unable to be the companions we want to be. Service clubs that continue in spite of the challenges they have been faced with raising money — continue to bring us those delicious hot dogs, hamburgers and flap jacks and a sense of community.
Volunteers at ESS and groups like it, that while they themselves may be under evacuation orders themselves, are still there to help us navigate the system. Food banks like the Salvation Army and all of the businesses and individuals that donate to provide much needed food and clothing to so many.
READ MORE: Latter Day Saints hosting Thanksgiving food drive for Salvation Army
So many groups and people to thank here that I could never possibly list everyone that has helped over the past year to make the Cariboo Chilcotin such an incredible place to live.
I hope you all had a safe and happy Thanksgiving filled with family and love. And as we move into a new season, I’d urge you to find a way to give just a little more to your favourite charity – every toonie or can of food helps more than most of us know.
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Lorne Doerkson is the Liberal MLA for Cariboo- Chilcotin.