Today is GivingTuesday!

Following the shopping frenzy of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, GivingTuesday stands out as a day dedicated to helping others. Originating in 2012, this global movement encourages people in almost 100 countries to give back to their communities, emphasizing that every act of generosity counts.

In Canada, the impact of GivingTuesday is profound, with the 2022 event raising over $50 million in just 24 hours. The initiative is not just about financial contributions; it includes giving time, acts of kindness, and various forms of support.

Nova Scotia participates with its unique initiative, “Nova Scotia Gives More,” as a part of GivingTuesday Canada. This local movement involves 99 charities and businesses, aiming to highlight the philanthropic efforts throughout the province.

The necessity for such initiatives is evident. Currently, 20% of Canadians rely on charitable services for basic needs like food and shelter. Additionally, 24% anticipate needing similar support soon. With 69% of those using these services doing so for the first time this year, the role of GivingTuesday becomes increasingly vital.

The event is not just a day for donations but a beacon of hope and community spirit. It’s a day where Nova Scotians come together in solidarity, demonstrating that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference. GivingTuesday serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and impact of community and generosity, especially during challenging times.

NS Gives More is a collective and collaborative group of Nova Scotian charities,
businesses, and nonprofits whose aim is to raise awareness of GivingTuesday,
opportunities for giving back to your community, and highlighting the support Nova
Scotians give to their community all year long.

Below is a list of some ways that people can take part in GivingTuesday in Nova Scotia. More information, or to find a charity of choice, can be found at www.nsgives.ca:

• 9:00 – Flag Raising at City Hall. Address: 1841 Argyle Street.
• 9-11 – The North Grove. Hosting a coffeehouse with live acoustic music, tasty food & drinks and crafts, launching a matching gift campaign. Address: 6 Primrose Street, Dartmouth.
• 9:30 – 3:30 – Adsum for Women and Children. Christmas Warehouse with donors dropping off gifts all day and volunteers sorting donations. Address: 211 Main St., Dartmouth.
• 11:00 – Afterwords Literary Festival. Unveiling of a new addition outside Glitter Bean Cafe. Address: 5896 Spring Garden Road.
• 11:00 – 3:00 – Cole Harbour Rural Heritage Society. Drop in to the Rose and Kettle Tearoom (at the Cole Harbour Heritage Farm) where, for your donation of $25 or more, you will enjoy a serving of our scrumptious Cream Tea (fresh baked scone with real whipped cream and homemade strawberry jam plus choice of tea or coffee). Address: 471 Poplar Drive, Cole Harbour.
• 11:00 – 4:00 – Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Halifax – Dartmouth Branch. Selling Mosaic for Mental Health Art Tiles, Cards, Calendars, and Peace by Chocolate Peace of Mind Bars. Address: 2020 Gottingen Street, Halifax.
• 12:00 – Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation. Hosting donors and supporters at a President’s luncheon. Address: 227 School Street, Dartmouth.
• 12:00 – 6:00 (limited quantities will determine end time) – Akoma. Giving away 100 bags of lettuce from their Hydroponic Farm. Address: 35 Wilfred Jackson Way, Westphal.