Ways to Support
2025 Christmas Appeal:
These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
JOHN 15:11
The Christmas and Holiday season is a time of reflection, giving, and joy.
This year, we invite you to give today and help make a meaningful difference in the lives of our Good Samaritan residents and clients by donating to support recreation programming in care homes across Alberta and British Columbia.
This season, we hope to raise $50,000 for the recreation programs in our care homes and other programs. Provincial health funding only covers a portion of what we offer. Your gift powers our recreation programs—filling the gap left by limited provincial health funding.
Thanks to donors like you, our residents will enjoy arts and crafts, games, music, outings, and other uplifting experiences. Every donation helps bring connection, comfort, and joy.
We can only do that with your support. Fill out the form below and you will give directly to the recreation program in the care home or community program you’d like to support. 100% of the donation goes to that care home!
Consider making your gift a monthly donation (it’s as simple as checking a box on the form below). Even a small, monthly donation of just $25 can ensure a steady supply of joy-filled experiences for our residents.
When deciding where to give this season, consider supporting Good Samaritan’s recreation programs. Recreation help our residents when they transition into care, reduces their stress, fosters connections, and uplifts their spirits.
Don’t just take our word for it—here are stories from staff, residents, and clients:
Kaitlyn Edwards, a recreation therapist at Good Samaritan Stony Plain Care Centre:
Recreation is essential because it provides purpose, play, and meaningful experiences that truly enhance our residents’ daily lives. Donations to the recreation program allow us to purchase items beyond our regular budget and introduce new, engaging experiences, making a real difference in residents’ lives. One resident recently joined a music program and brought along his guitar. He had the opportunity to play alongside the performer, sharing not only his love of music but also his talent. It was such a special experience for him — a moment of connection, pride, and joy. Meaningful moments like this are what make our recreation programs so special. They create opportunities for self-expression, engagement, and a deep sense of purpose.
A resident at Good Samaritan Victoria Heights in New Westminster, BC:
“Leaving my life to come to a care home was a huge transition. I was afraid of the changes and loss of my identity. Recreation helped bring calm to my heart because I could continue with my arts and crafts and other hobbies. I met many other residents who share my passion for good music, and I have joined in the fun bingo games.“
Pam Bertrand, a recreation therapy aide at the Good Samaritan West Highlands Centre in Lethbridge, AB:
As residents participate in activities at West Highlands, the recreation team sees their personalities shine, and we learn who they are as people. We laugh with them, cry with them, and everything in between. We see sides of them that maybe even their families haven’t seen.
Recently, one resident’s family member said to me, “Since mom has been diagnosed with dementia, the only time I see the person that she used to be is when she is doing activities with you.” It’s those comments that are why our recreation staff do what we do.
We show residents that in these moments of joy, people can find inner peace and healing, living each day with anticipation for what we will do next. This is when people say that my job is just playing games with seniors. We do so much more than that. I say, “I get to change lives, one activity at a time.”
We create opportunities for residents to remember, connect with friends, and have moments of laughter—an environment where they can be themselves, be silly, have fun, and feel joy in their lives. Who doesn’t want that?
I am truly honoured to work in Recreation Therapy. When I come into work every day and hear the residents remember my name, say, “Good morning, Pam,” and then invite me over for a coffee, it reminds me of how truly lucky I am to be in this field.
Chris, a client in our Programs for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PPDD) in Edmonton, described how recreation has helped him:
“Recreation has been a real lifesaver. With diet and exercise, I’ve lost over 100 pounds. I go to the Commonwealth Rec Centre because they have excellent equipment, and the staff there are knowledgeable and invested in their patrons. The Edmonton Elks and their cheerleaders exercise there, which is another motivator. By losing weight and exercising, I feel good on the inside; it has helped me with my self-esteem, and I’m confident that change is possible. Other people have given me help, encouragement, and friendship because they recognize my journey is like theirs, and they can see what my discipline has achieved.”
We hope that you continue to support Good Samaritan and Spread Cheer All Year!
Blessings upon you this Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year.
Dr. Katherine Chubbs,
President and CEO
Give today to our Christmas Appeal:
Give directly to the recreation program in the care home or community program you’d like to support. 100% of your donation goes directly to support the residents in our care!
