January 2012
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Community News
Vol. 26 No. 01 January 2012
Burnside Gorge
www.burnsidegorge.ca
COMMUNITY MEETING
Monday, January 16, 7 pm Burnside Gorge Community Centre 471 Cecelia Road Everyone is welcome Light refreshments will be served On the agenda: Rezoning application for 35-39 Gorge Rd East & Temporary permit for 215 Gorge Road East It’s your neighbourhood. It’s your voice that counts. Rezoning application
Burnside says goodbye to graffiti
T
for 35-39 Gorge Rd East
he Greater Victoria Housing Society and Greater Victoria Rental Development Society are seeking to rezone 35-39 Gorge Road East to deconstruct the existing structure and build a mixed condominium/rental housing project with up to 74 apartments and townhouses ranging in size from one bedroom to three bedroom units. In order to achieve up to 74 units, the design includes an apartment building with six attached townhouses. The apartment building will be five stories at the back and three stories at Gorge Road. The plan also includes developing a separate parcel of the property for six three-bedroom townhouses. Both the apartment building and townhouse complex will be accessed by a driveway on Irma Street. Parking will be underground for the apartments and at grade for six of the townhouses. Up to twelve of the townhouses will be sold as condominium ownership. The Greater Victoria Housing Society and Greater Victoria Rental Development Society are also the owners/developers of 21 Gorge Road East, right next door to 35 and 39 Gorge Road East. The design of 35 and 39 Gorge will be different than 21 Gorge to create visual interest on the street. Temporary permit
Constable David Bratzer paints over graffiti during a neighbourhood paint-out event in December. Please ioin us at the next paint-out event on Saturday, January 21 from 11am-2pm to remove graffiti along Gorge Road East. RSVP to Darb at derickson@victoria.ca or (250)361-0580. Paint and supplies will be provided - please wear clothes appropriate for painting. Friends and neighbours welcome! Photo: Darb Erickson
Family Self-Sufficiency program offers life changing opportunity for families
Linda Marcinkiewicz, FSS Family Advisor
W
e’re excited to announce that the Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) is moving forward with Phase IV and will begin recruiting new participants in January 2012. We will be holding information sessions for individuals who are interested in learning more about this financial literacy and asset-building program for families. FSS has provided supportive programming to families in the Greater Victoria region since 2002 and over the next three years, will continue to provide opportunities for families who live in subsidized housing and want to move forward to financial self-sufficiency. Participants will be partnered with a Family Advisor while they plan for the future, set goals related to employment and finances, increase their financial knowledge, build workable budgets and access an opportunity to build savings. FSS will provide additional opportunities through partnerships with community agencies who are interested in offering free financial literacy training to the people who use their programs and communities. If you would like more information about the program or how to get involved, please call BGCA at 250-388-5251 and ask to speak to someone in the FSS Program. BG CN
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program is excited to offer spaces for Phase IV We invite you to join us soon
Are you: • Living in subsidized housing • Living with at least one child • Surviving on a low income • Struggling with debt • Feeling overwhelmed about money • Worried about your finances
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program can support you… • Face your financial fears and move forward • Take control of your money • Start saving • Begin a debt reduction plan • Access supports that will assist you and your family as you move toward a brighter future
T
for 215 Gorge Road East
he owner of 215 Gorge Road East is requesting a temporary permit to operate a rental office on the premises. The application pertains to the temporary use of two suites as a temporary rental office serving the residents of the suites located at 155 and 215 Gorge Road East. The current owner, CAP REIT, has no intentions to apply for rezoning, at this time. The property is located in a residential zone. The appearance of the building as it exists is to remain the same. The location and placement of the rental office will not have any effect on traffic along Gorge Road and/or any other neighbouring streets and roads. The nature of the request is temporary in nature and not intended as a permanent location. We will be using each of the above locations as a “hub” to solicit your feedback on these portions of the Burnside Gorge neighbourhood and what you would like to see happen…or not happen…there! BG CN
Call 250-388-5251 to find out more about this life changing opportunity
A C TI VIT Y G UID E IN SID E
FITNESS • CHILDCARE • WORKSHOPS • SENIORS FAMILY PROGRAMS • TEEN CENTRE & MORE
2
Burnside Gorge Community News January 2012
Community News
Burnside Gorge Community Association 471 Cecelia Rd Victoria BC, V8T 4T4 T. 250-388-5251 | F. 250-388-5269 www.burnsidegorge.ca Editor: Kim Perkins BGCA Board of Directors Tracy James, Chair Michelle Peterson, Vice-Chair Catherine McGregor, Treasurer TJ Schur, Secretary Gary MacDougall John Sanderson Lesley Valour Vickie Jackson TO ADVERTISE As a not-for-profit organization, we depend on advertising to cover publishing costs. Please contact us for current rates and information: 250-388-5251 ext. 223 | kim@burnsidegorge.ca Note: Written contributions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the BGCA or its staff. This community publication is made possible by support from the City of Victoria and the Allen and Loreen Vanderkhove Family Foundation. Thank you!
Burnside Gorge
Moms and Mentors seeks volunteer mentors
munity or simply sit down and chat over a coffee together. Mentors do not babysit for the moms they are matched with; they are there for relationship with the mom. Below is Moon’s experience being matched with a mentor through the MOMentum Moms and Mentors program: I was paired up with my mentor, Brenda, over a year ago now, and it has been such a rewarding experience. I was quite lost emotionally when I first moved here and every facet of the Moms and Mentors group helped me feel part of a community and have the confidence I needed to keep a positive attitude and give my son the experiences I wanted him to have here. The monthly group meeting, of which I’ve only gone to a few, are really great—a mom’s sharing group basically where you don’t feel alone in any situation, a speaker to help feed our inner self, and then lunch! Also, the Christmas party last year was just amazing-- all that goes into it, the food, crafting, music, fun for the kids, Santa, and time with everyone in the program. I’ve benefited most from my relationship with my mentor, as I think we were perfectly matched. She gives me inspiration when I need it, she’s always a great listener of all my worries and stresses being a single mom, she’s got this natural connection with my son and she’s just great to spend time with in general! I think every mom should be a part of this group because it’ll give you more than what you even think you came in for. I will know Brenda forever and the Moms and Mentors program brought us together. Thank you. To find out more please contact Annette De Boer at annette@singleparentvictoria.ca or 250385-1114 ext. 228. Moms and Mentors is currently funded by Success By 6, United Way and Vancouver Foundation.
Published by the
The Moms and Mentors program needs volunteer mentors who are able to commit for one year. Help make a difference in the life of a family today.
Annette De Boer, MOMentum Series, Program Coordinator
T
Tax time?
he Moms and Mentors program offers support and guidance to isolated single mothers by matching them with volunteer mentors who are often experienced mothers. Not only do the moms and mentors benefit, the children also benefit from increased social connection and an expanded sense of community through the program. If you wish to contribute to building relationships and expanding personal networks of support for single moms and their children in our community, this volunteer opportunity awaits you!
Get help with professional preparation of your income tax returns
Basic returns efiled starting from $50 + HST* Self employed, rental and investment income specialists Financial statements and corporate year ends General business and tax consulting
The Moms and Mentors program has been running since 2005 through 1Up Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre. The program continues to grow and we have new moms looking to be matched with experienced mothers. In the time that moms and mentors spend together, they might discuss parenting issues, work on personal goals, enjoy fun outings in our com-
* up to three t-slips and no dependants
Contact us today:
BG CN
T 250.386.1999
www.dalevinson.com
204-2610 Douglas St Victoria BC V8T 4M1
Southpark students learn lesson in homelessness
875 Viewfield Road Victoria, BC V9A 4V2
T
his November students from Southpark Elementary School visited the community centre to learn how homelessness affects families. Below is a letter from one of the students about what they are doing to support the homeless.
DG AUTO CARE
643 DAVID STREET, VICTORIA
250-885-5954 REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE
10% OFF FIRST SERVICE FOR NEW CUSTOMERS
Sol Food Cafe & Sol Fine Foods
Cafe, Deli, Catering
Monday-Friday
T. 250-381-6629 F. 250-381-6618 #101-2955 Jutland Rd solfinefoods.com
7am-4pm
BG CN
Burnside Gorge Community News January 2012
3
Preschool at Burnside Gorge
Ready to Rent BC fighting homelessness: a success story
eet Sarah Brown (a pseudonym). Sarah found out about the Ready to Rent BC program at Saanich Neighbourhood Place. At the time she and her child were couch surfing, dividing their time between family and friends. Everyone was happy to support Sarah because she had finally left an unhealthy relationship. Before Sarah called it quits, there was a lot of financial stress that ended up with non payment of rent and an eviction As part of the Ready to Rent six week program Sarah learned about managing credit and budgeting and really liked the sense of control she felt when writing all her expenses down. She also decided to write a letter of explanation about the events that lead to her eviction and describe why that would not happen in the future. She defined her short and long term goals, and committed to a personal contract. Although there weren’t a lot of housing options in the area, Sarah decided that for her long term goals to be realized it was very important to live close to her family and continue to get their support raising her young son. Ready to Rent BC caught up with Sarah recently and after an 11 month wait, she was living in a two bedroom subsidized suite just a 20 minute walk from her parents’ home. “They called me and asked me if I wanted the place and I just couldn’t believe it - I cried and cried. The lady told me that my credit was bad and that the only reason I got the place was because of my Ready to Rent certificate. That’s why they decided to take a chance on me and they won’t be sorry!” Sarah loves her new home and is enjoying finally having her belongings around her. She continues to write out her monthly budget and now that she is finally settled, will be moving forward with
M
her plan to go back to school. Since the program began in 2009, Ready to Rent BC has worked to empower over 305 graduates and helped hundreds of others with housing related issues. The innovative program is currently available for free to all families in the CRD area. We are grateful for the support from the United Way of Greater Victoria, VanCity Savings Credit Union, Vancouver Foundation, BC Housing and CRD Housing.
Constable Rachel Bourne visits our preschool class. Preschool visits Santa at Mayfair Mall.
Take the Ready to Rent program at the Burnside Gorge Community Centre. Tuesdays, 1-3pm January 17 -February 21 (6) You may participate in fewer than six classes but you must complete all six to earn the Ready to Rent certificate. Classes may be completed at another location if you are unable to attend the entire session. Free. Childminding is available. Snacks and bus tickets provided. To register, call Kim at 250-388-7171 or email kimreadytorent@shaw.ca.
For ages 3.5-5 years Space available starting January, 2012 Call 250-388-5251 to register
BG CN
Rob Fleming, MLA
Victoria – Hillside
1020 Hillside Avenue
Let’s resolve to not give up!
Member of Parliament for Victoria
CONSTITUENCY OFFICE: 970 Blanshard Street Victoria, BC V8W 2H3
Denise Savoie
D
Your voice in Ottawa
ear Constituents,
TELEPHONE: 250-363-3600 E-MAIL: denise.savoie@parl.gc.ca ON THE WEB: www.denisesavoie.ca
Victorians and to participate in developing public policy and laws based on the best information and advice at hand. I need to tell you that it has become difficult to do that in this political climate. However, when our democracy ceases to function in a healthy way I don’t believe we can just give up. People in Victoria, as in other parts of the country, are still speaking out and have clearly decided to hold the government accountable. Every day I receive hundreds of letters at my offices in Victoria and in Ottawa, asking me to tell the government that they are worried about the repercussions of Bill C-10, the so-called tough-on-crime legislation, that they are offended that farmers didn’t get a say before the dismantling of the Wheat Board, and that they are stunned that the long-gun registry has been killed and we have even weakened the laws that were in place before the registry was introduced. The grassroots organization Leadnow inspired Canadians to voice their concerns about the crime bill in days of action in November at Member of Parliament offices across the country. Thousands of you have written to the Government to ask the Prime Minister to support an international treaty with binding targets to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and prevent the irreversible damage of climate change. You give me hope. So do the many individuals who devote themselves to important work, like Kathleen Ruff, who has worked tirelessly to end Canada’s exports of asbestos. As we enter 2012, I am resolved to work with all those who continue to fight for the kind of society we want. Giving up would mean giving up on the future of our children and grandchildren, and I will never do that! In the face of intractably undemocratic behaviour in Ottawa, let us be more democratic than ever and get involved in whatever way we can in our country, in our community or in our neighbourhood. BG CN
250 360.2023
rob.fleming.mla@leg.bc.ca
Serving Our Community
At the start of a new calendar year many people decide to make resolutions. Often they are hard to keep. But they can inspire or motivate us to think or act in situations that are difficult or challenging. I have been thinking a lot lately about what will motivate Canadians in large enough numbers to demand change because it is clear that our society has become more unequal, our democratic institutions are taking a beating, and the Conservative government is making decisions on climate change that may be difficult to reverse. The fall session of Parliament was particularly challenging. It was clear from the way in which debate for major legislation was cut off and bills were rushed through the House of Commons without the scrutiny they required or any consideration of experts’ advice or of the concerns of opposition parties or the public or indeed of the Courts, that this government has an agenda from which it will not deviate. The Conservatives have even admitted to spreading false rumours about the respected Liberal Member from Westmount but defended their actions under the guise of free speech. As your elected Member of Parliament, I find this way of governing is beyond ultrapartisanship; it is simply unparliamentary and a worrisome trend for our democratic institutions. I went to Ottawa to represent the needs and interests of
650 Hillside Ave Victoria BC, V8T 1Z2
Guaranteed service since 1959
250-384-4722
Fax 250-384-8860 info@russhays.com www.russhays.com
Dodd’s Furniture 715 Finlayson St
across from Mayfair shopping centre
Call 388-6663
We won’t be undersold!
Locally owned and operated. Serving Victoria since 1977.
www.doddsfurniture.com
4
Burnside Gorge Community News January 2012
Thank you, from our family to yours
T
his December, and throughout 2011, we received support from numerous individuals and businesses in the Burnside Gorge neighbourhood- and all over Victoria. Thanks to this generous support from the community, we were able to provide events for our community and food, clothes and Christmas hampers for families in need. Here are some highlights from December:
191 – People attended our annual community Christmas dinner 100 – Pounds of turkey were served at our annual community Christmas dinner 100 – Pounds of mashed potatoes were served at our community Christmas dinner 75 - Christmas hampers provided to families in need. Special thanks to BGCA staff for volunteering many hours of wrapping help and to ICBC Victoria Claims Centre, Go-Rowing and Paddling Association, Tony Joe & Associates and FrogBox for collecting donations and supporting this important program. 100 - Bags of coffee sold in support of the Active Families Fund – sponsoring families to get active at the community centre. Special thanks to Charlayne Thornton-Joe for her incredible support of this initiative. 26 - Seniors enjoyed a special Christmas lunch, cooked up by our extraordinary volunteers Jim Dixon and the Wellspring Support team. Thanks to Judy Bogood for providing festive piano tunes. Realtors, Tony Joe & Associates hosted their annual client appreciation event at the IMAX Theatre. Guests brought food and gift donations for our Christmas hampers. Families from our community enjoyed a free Christmas movie with their family and community. This was some families’ first IMAX experience! Special thanks to Bubba Loo Children's Boutique in Sidney for donating coats to keep children warm this winter. The community centre was filled with music, magic, laughter, crafts and a visit with Santa when young children, and those young at heart, attended the 2011 Santa’s Pancake Breakfast. Special thanks to our title sponsor CFAX Santa’s Anonymous as well as to Island Savings, Japan Camera – Mayfair Mall, Bob Vanderford of Passions Captured Photography, Caleb Kennedy and The Christmas Patrol, John Warren and his magic tricks, Gorge Road Fairways Market, Gary Birtwistle and the team of Firefighters from Local 730 and all the dedicated volunteers who supported the event with their energetic holiday spirit. Go-Rowing and Paddling Association hosted the First Annual “Deck the Hulls” festive paddle event. This keen group filled an entire skiff (and then some) with donations for our Christmas hampers! They also enjoyed races and a BBQ. Special thanks go to the organizers Katie, Karen, Scott, Roman, James, Corey and Steve as well as all “core paddlers”. Your donations and spirit are a testament to “community pulling together”. BG CN
W
Cool new programs for YOUth in 2012
In your community
Centennial United Church was honoured by the presentation of a “Thank You” plaque from The Victoria Cool Aid Society at a recent service. Centennial UC has long been a supporter of Cool Aid and in 2010 a gift of 150 afghan blankets was donated to the new Rock Bay Landing facility. Centennial did not do this alone and sends thanks to the many volunteer knitters from the Burnside Gorge community who helped make this possible by knitting many afghans and squares and donating wool. Several church groups throughout Victoria donated blankets and some even came from England. Centennial invites you to drop in and see “our” thank you plaque whenever you go by the church. This was a great church/community achievement. Thanks to you all who contributed. The Knit-Wit tree for Christmas also brought donations from Burnside Gorge community. May our togetherness in serving others help us to always be eager to “see a need and fill it.” Happy New Year! Civic Orchestra of Victoria is coming to Centennial United Church on Sunday, January 29 at 3pm. Under the theme of “500 Years of String Music” the orchestra will present music of Beethoven, Mozart and Hummel. Tickets $12. 649 Gorge Road East. An early bird notice to Balfour Avenue residents - The Great Annual Balfour Avenue Street Sale will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2012 from 9am3pm. For information, contact Lona at lmcrae@uvic.ca or 250-721-6197. Graffiti Paint-Out Event - Saturday, January 21 Join us for this important community cleanup event. Everyone is welcome. What: Painting over graffiti along Gorge Road When: Saturday January 21, 2012 from 11 am to 2 pm Where: Meet at the Legion Trafalgar/Pro Patria Branch 292, 411 Gorge Rd E Paint and supplies provided. Please bring appropriate painting attire. RSVP to Darb at derickson@victoria.ca or (250)361-0580 by Weds, Jan. 18. This event is dependant on decent weather. In the case of inclement weather we will reschedule the event to the following weekend, Sat, Jan 28.
e're excited to offer some cool new programs in our youth centre this year - and all your old favourites too! Check out the activity guide inside for more details. Monday - Girl Stuff Wednesday - Guy Stuff Thursday - Dinner Drop-in Friday - Drop-in Night Saturday - Drop-in Day & Yoga for Teens Plus Life Skills Certificate Program Tillicum School Pro D Day Camps
urnside Gorge runs Pro D Day camps for students in grade 4 and 5 at Tillicum Elementary School. So far this year, students have been whisked away to experience some of the wonderful activities that Greater Victoria has to offer. Starting each morning off right, Youth Recreation Programmer, Emmalee Brunt wakes up in the wee hours of the morning to cook up her famous pancake breakfasts for the campers while they enjoy the many activities in the Youth Centre. October’s camp excursion was a blast with campers bundled-up at Goldstream Park learning how to build campfires and enjoying a marshmallow roast, with firewood graciously donated by George and Charlene in the West Shore! Thank you again! November’s camp was another success, as students learned hands-on at Boston Pizza the art of making a good pizza. Not only did the Blanshard Boston Pizza let campers in before opening for the day, but they let students into the kitchen to see how a restaurant works and make their own pizzas! Wow! Thanks again Boston Pizza!
B
Community News
Vol. 26 No. 01 January 2012
Burnside Gorge
www.burnsidegorge.ca
COMMUNITY MEETING
Monday, January 16, 7 pm Burnside Gorge Community Centre 471 Cecelia Road Everyone is welcome Light refreshments will be served On the agenda: Rezoning application for 35-39 Gorge Rd East & Temporary permit for 215 Gorge Road East It’s your neighbourhood. It’s your voice that counts. Rezoning application
Burnside says goodbye to graffiti
T
for 35-39 Gorge Rd East
he Greater Victoria Housing Society and Greater Victoria Rental Development Society are seeking to rezone 35-39 Gorge Road East to deconstruct the existing structure and build a mixed condominium/rental housing project with up to 74 apartments and townhouses ranging in size from one bedroom to three bedroom units. In order to achieve up to 74 units, the design includes an apartment building with six attached townhouses. The apartment building will be five stories at the back and three stories at Gorge Road. The plan also includes developing a separate parcel of the property for six three-bedroom townhouses. Both the apartment building and townhouse complex will be accessed by a driveway on Irma Street. Parking will be underground for the apartments and at grade for six of the townhouses. Up to twelve of the townhouses will be sold as condominium ownership. The Greater Victoria Housing Society and Greater Victoria Rental Development Society are also the owners/developers of 21 Gorge Road East, right next door to 35 and 39 Gorge Road East. The design of 35 and 39 Gorge will be different than 21 Gorge to create visual interest on the street. Temporary permit
Constable David Bratzer paints over graffiti during a neighbourhood paint-out event in December. Please ioin us at the next paint-out event on Saturday, January 21 from 11am-2pm to remove graffiti along Gorge Road East. RSVP to Darb at derickson@victoria.ca or (250)361-0580. Paint and supplies will be provided - please wear clothes appropriate for painting. Friends and neighbours welcome! Photo: Darb Erickson
Family Self-Sufficiency program offers life changing opportunity for families
Linda Marcinkiewicz, FSS Family Advisor
W
e’re excited to announce that the Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) is moving forward with Phase IV and will begin recruiting new participants in January 2012. We will be holding information sessions for individuals who are interested in learning more about this financial literacy and asset-building program for families. FSS has provided supportive programming to families in the Greater Victoria region since 2002 and over the next three years, will continue to provide opportunities for families who live in subsidized housing and want to move forward to financial self-sufficiency. Participants will be partnered with a Family Advisor while they plan for the future, set goals related to employment and finances, increase their financial knowledge, build workable budgets and access an opportunity to build savings. FSS will provide additional opportunities through partnerships with community agencies who are interested in offering free financial literacy training to the people who use their programs and communities. If you would like more information about the program or how to get involved, please call BGCA at 250-388-5251 and ask to speak to someone in the FSS Program. BG CN
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program is excited to offer spaces for Phase IV We invite you to join us soon
Are you: • Living in subsidized housing • Living with at least one child • Surviving on a low income • Struggling with debt • Feeling overwhelmed about money • Worried about your finances
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program can support you… • Face your financial fears and move forward • Take control of your money • Start saving • Begin a debt reduction plan • Access supports that will assist you and your family as you move toward a brighter future
T
for 215 Gorge Road East
he owner of 215 Gorge Road East is requesting a temporary permit to operate a rental office on the premises. The application pertains to the temporary use of two suites as a temporary rental office serving the residents of the suites located at 155 and 215 Gorge Road East. The current owner, CAP REIT, has no intentions to apply for rezoning, at this time. The property is located in a residential zone. The appearance of the building as it exists is to remain the same. The location and placement of the rental office will not have any effect on traffic along Gorge Road and/or any other neighbouring streets and roads. The nature of the request is temporary in nature and not intended as a permanent location. We will be using each of the above locations as a “hub” to solicit your feedback on these portions of the Burnside Gorge neighbourhood and what you would like to see happen…or not happen…there! BG CN
Call 250-388-5251 to find out more about this life changing opportunity
A C TI VIT Y G UID E IN SID E
FITNESS • CHILDCARE • WORKSHOPS • SENIORS FAMILY PROGRAMS • TEEN CENTRE & MORE
2
Burnside Gorge Community News January 2012
Community News
Burnside Gorge Community Association 471 Cecelia Rd Victoria BC, V8T 4T4 T. 250-388-5251 | F. 250-388-5269 www.burnsidegorge.ca Editor: Kim Perkins BGCA Board of Directors Tracy James, Chair Michelle Peterson, Vice-Chair Catherine McGregor, Treasurer TJ Schur, Secretary Gary MacDougall John Sanderson Lesley Valour Vickie Jackson TO ADVERTISE As a not-for-profit organization, we depend on advertising to cover publishing costs. Please contact us for current rates and information: 250-388-5251 ext. 223 | kim@burnsidegorge.ca Note: Written contributions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the BGCA or its staff. This community publication is made possible by support from the City of Victoria and the Allen and Loreen Vanderkhove Family Foundation. Thank you!
Burnside Gorge
Moms and Mentors seeks volunteer mentors
munity or simply sit down and chat over a coffee together. Mentors do not babysit for the moms they are matched with; they are there for relationship with the mom. Below is Moon’s experience being matched with a mentor through the MOMentum Moms and Mentors program: I was paired up with my mentor, Brenda, over a year ago now, and it has been such a rewarding experience. I was quite lost emotionally when I first moved here and every facet of the Moms and Mentors group helped me feel part of a community and have the confidence I needed to keep a positive attitude and give my son the experiences I wanted him to have here. The monthly group meeting, of which I’ve only gone to a few, are really great—a mom’s sharing group basically where you don’t feel alone in any situation, a speaker to help feed our inner self, and then lunch! Also, the Christmas party last year was just amazing-- all that goes into it, the food, crafting, music, fun for the kids, Santa, and time with everyone in the program. I’ve benefited most from my relationship with my mentor, as I think we were perfectly matched. She gives me inspiration when I need it, she’s always a great listener of all my worries and stresses being a single mom, she’s got this natural connection with my son and she’s just great to spend time with in general! I think every mom should be a part of this group because it’ll give you more than what you even think you came in for. I will know Brenda forever and the Moms and Mentors program brought us together. Thank you. To find out more please contact Annette De Boer at annette@singleparentvictoria.ca or 250385-1114 ext. 228. Moms and Mentors is currently funded by Success By 6, United Way and Vancouver Foundation.
Published by the
The Moms and Mentors program needs volunteer mentors who are able to commit for one year. Help make a difference in the life of a family today.
Annette De Boer, MOMentum Series, Program Coordinator
T
Tax time?
he Moms and Mentors program offers support and guidance to isolated single mothers by matching them with volunteer mentors who are often experienced mothers. Not only do the moms and mentors benefit, the children also benefit from increased social connection and an expanded sense of community through the program. If you wish to contribute to building relationships and expanding personal networks of support for single moms and their children in our community, this volunteer opportunity awaits you!
Get help with professional preparation of your income tax returns
Basic returns efiled starting from $50 + HST* Self employed, rental and investment income specialists Financial statements and corporate year ends General business and tax consulting
The Moms and Mentors program has been running since 2005 through 1Up Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre. The program continues to grow and we have new moms looking to be matched with experienced mothers. In the time that moms and mentors spend together, they might discuss parenting issues, work on personal goals, enjoy fun outings in our com-
* up to three t-slips and no dependants
Contact us today:
BG CN
T 250.386.1999
www.dalevinson.com
204-2610 Douglas St Victoria BC V8T 4M1
Southpark students learn lesson in homelessness
875 Viewfield Road Victoria, BC V9A 4V2
T
his November students from Southpark Elementary School visited the community centre to learn how homelessness affects families. Below is a letter from one of the students about what they are doing to support the homeless.
DG AUTO CARE
643 DAVID STREET, VICTORIA
250-885-5954 REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE
10% OFF FIRST SERVICE FOR NEW CUSTOMERS
Sol Food Cafe & Sol Fine Foods
Cafe, Deli, Catering
Monday-Friday
T. 250-381-6629 F. 250-381-6618 #101-2955 Jutland Rd solfinefoods.com
7am-4pm
BG CN
Burnside Gorge Community News January 2012
3
Preschool at Burnside Gorge
Ready to Rent BC fighting homelessness: a success story
eet Sarah Brown (a pseudonym). Sarah found out about the Ready to Rent BC program at Saanich Neighbourhood Place. At the time she and her child were couch surfing, dividing their time between family and friends. Everyone was happy to support Sarah because she had finally left an unhealthy relationship. Before Sarah called it quits, there was a lot of financial stress that ended up with non payment of rent and an eviction As part of the Ready to Rent six week program Sarah learned about managing credit and budgeting and really liked the sense of control she felt when writing all her expenses down. She also decided to write a letter of explanation about the events that lead to her eviction and describe why that would not happen in the future. She defined her short and long term goals, and committed to a personal contract. Although there weren’t a lot of housing options in the area, Sarah decided that for her long term goals to be realized it was very important to live close to her family and continue to get their support raising her young son. Ready to Rent BC caught up with Sarah recently and after an 11 month wait, she was living in a two bedroom subsidized suite just a 20 minute walk from her parents’ home. “They called me and asked me if I wanted the place and I just couldn’t believe it - I cried and cried. The lady told me that my credit was bad and that the only reason I got the place was because of my Ready to Rent certificate. That’s why they decided to take a chance on me and they won’t be sorry!” Sarah loves her new home and is enjoying finally having her belongings around her. She continues to write out her monthly budget and now that she is finally settled, will be moving forward with
M
her plan to go back to school. Since the program began in 2009, Ready to Rent BC has worked to empower over 305 graduates and helped hundreds of others with housing related issues. The innovative program is currently available for free to all families in the CRD area. We are grateful for the support from the United Way of Greater Victoria, VanCity Savings Credit Union, Vancouver Foundation, BC Housing and CRD Housing.
Constable Rachel Bourne visits our preschool class. Preschool visits Santa at Mayfair Mall.
Take the Ready to Rent program at the Burnside Gorge Community Centre. Tuesdays, 1-3pm January 17 -February 21 (6) You may participate in fewer than six classes but you must complete all six to earn the Ready to Rent certificate. Classes may be completed at another location if you are unable to attend the entire session. Free. Childminding is available. Snacks and bus tickets provided. To register, call Kim at 250-388-7171 or email kimreadytorent@shaw.ca.
For ages 3.5-5 years Space available starting January, 2012 Call 250-388-5251 to register
BG CN
Rob Fleming, MLA
Victoria – Hillside
1020 Hillside Avenue
Let’s resolve to not give up!
Member of Parliament for Victoria
CONSTITUENCY OFFICE: 970 Blanshard Street Victoria, BC V8W 2H3
Denise Savoie
D
Your voice in Ottawa
ear Constituents,
TELEPHONE: 250-363-3600 E-MAIL: denise.savoie@parl.gc.ca ON THE WEB: www.denisesavoie.ca
Victorians and to participate in developing public policy and laws based on the best information and advice at hand. I need to tell you that it has become difficult to do that in this political climate. However, when our democracy ceases to function in a healthy way I don’t believe we can just give up. People in Victoria, as in other parts of the country, are still speaking out and have clearly decided to hold the government accountable. Every day I receive hundreds of letters at my offices in Victoria and in Ottawa, asking me to tell the government that they are worried about the repercussions of Bill C-10, the so-called tough-on-crime legislation, that they are offended that farmers didn’t get a say before the dismantling of the Wheat Board, and that they are stunned that the long-gun registry has been killed and we have even weakened the laws that were in place before the registry was introduced. The grassroots organization Leadnow inspired Canadians to voice their concerns about the crime bill in days of action in November at Member of Parliament offices across the country. Thousands of you have written to the Government to ask the Prime Minister to support an international treaty with binding targets to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and prevent the irreversible damage of climate change. You give me hope. So do the many individuals who devote themselves to important work, like Kathleen Ruff, who has worked tirelessly to end Canada’s exports of asbestos. As we enter 2012, I am resolved to work with all those who continue to fight for the kind of society we want. Giving up would mean giving up on the future of our children and grandchildren, and I will never do that! In the face of intractably undemocratic behaviour in Ottawa, let us be more democratic than ever and get involved in whatever way we can in our country, in our community or in our neighbourhood. BG CN
250 360.2023
rob.fleming.mla@leg.bc.ca
Serving Our Community
At the start of a new calendar year many people decide to make resolutions. Often they are hard to keep. But they can inspire or motivate us to think or act in situations that are difficult or challenging. I have been thinking a lot lately about what will motivate Canadians in large enough numbers to demand change because it is clear that our society has become more unequal, our democratic institutions are taking a beating, and the Conservative government is making decisions on climate change that may be difficult to reverse. The fall session of Parliament was particularly challenging. It was clear from the way in which debate for major legislation was cut off and bills were rushed through the House of Commons without the scrutiny they required or any consideration of experts’ advice or of the concerns of opposition parties or the public or indeed of the Courts, that this government has an agenda from which it will not deviate. The Conservatives have even admitted to spreading false rumours about the respected Liberal Member from Westmount but defended their actions under the guise of free speech. As your elected Member of Parliament, I find this way of governing is beyond ultrapartisanship; it is simply unparliamentary and a worrisome trend for our democratic institutions. I went to Ottawa to represent the needs and interests of
650 Hillside Ave Victoria BC, V8T 1Z2
Guaranteed service since 1959
250-384-4722
Fax 250-384-8860 info@russhays.com www.russhays.com
Dodd’s Furniture 715 Finlayson St
across from Mayfair shopping centre
Call 388-6663
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Locally owned and operated. Serving Victoria since 1977.
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Burnside Gorge Community News January 2012
Thank you, from our family to yours
T
his December, and throughout 2011, we received support from numerous individuals and businesses in the Burnside Gorge neighbourhood- and all over Victoria. Thanks to this generous support from the community, we were able to provide events for our community and food, clothes and Christmas hampers for families in need. Here are some highlights from December:
191 – People attended our annual community Christmas dinner 100 – Pounds of turkey were served at our annual community Christmas dinner 100 – Pounds of mashed potatoes were served at our community Christmas dinner 75 - Christmas hampers provided to families in need. Special thanks to BGCA staff for volunteering many hours of wrapping help and to ICBC Victoria Claims Centre, Go-Rowing and Paddling Association, Tony Joe & Associates and FrogBox for collecting donations and supporting this important program. 100 - Bags of coffee sold in support of the Active Families Fund – sponsoring families to get active at the community centre. Special thanks to Charlayne Thornton-Joe for her incredible support of this initiative. 26 - Seniors enjoyed a special Christmas lunch, cooked up by our extraordinary volunteers Jim Dixon and the Wellspring Support team. Thanks to Judy Bogood for providing festive piano tunes. Realtors, Tony Joe & Associates hosted their annual client appreciation event at the IMAX Theatre. Guests brought food and gift donations for our Christmas hampers. Families from our community enjoyed a free Christmas movie with their family and community. This was some families’ first IMAX experience! Special thanks to Bubba Loo Children's Boutique in Sidney for donating coats to keep children warm this winter. The community centre was filled with music, magic, laughter, crafts and a visit with Santa when young children, and those young at heart, attended the 2011 Santa’s Pancake Breakfast. Special thanks to our title sponsor CFAX Santa’s Anonymous as well as to Island Savings, Japan Camera – Mayfair Mall, Bob Vanderford of Passions Captured Photography, Caleb Kennedy and The Christmas Patrol, John Warren and his magic tricks, Gorge Road Fairways Market, Gary Birtwistle and the team of Firefighters from Local 730 and all the dedicated volunteers who supported the event with their energetic holiday spirit. Go-Rowing and Paddling Association hosted the First Annual “Deck the Hulls” festive paddle event. This keen group filled an entire skiff (and then some) with donations for our Christmas hampers! They also enjoyed races and a BBQ. Special thanks go to the organizers Katie, Karen, Scott, Roman, James, Corey and Steve as well as all “core paddlers”. Your donations and spirit are a testament to “community pulling together”. BG CN
W
Cool new programs for YOUth in 2012
In your community
Centennial United Church was honoured by the presentation of a “Thank You” plaque from The Victoria Cool Aid Society at a recent service. Centennial UC has long been a supporter of Cool Aid and in 2010 a gift of 150 afghan blankets was donated to the new Rock Bay Landing facility. Centennial did not do this alone and sends thanks to the many volunteer knitters from the Burnside Gorge community who helped make this possible by knitting many afghans and squares and donating wool. Several church groups throughout Victoria donated blankets and some even came from England. Centennial invites you to drop in and see “our” thank you plaque whenever you go by the church. This was a great church/community achievement. Thanks to you all who contributed. The Knit-Wit tree for Christmas also brought donations from Burnside Gorge community. May our togetherness in serving others help us to always be eager to “see a need and fill it.” Happy New Year! Civic Orchestra of Victoria is coming to Centennial United Church on Sunday, January 29 at 3pm. Under the theme of “500 Years of String Music” the orchestra will present music of Beethoven, Mozart and Hummel. Tickets $12. 649 Gorge Road East. An early bird notice to Balfour Avenue residents - The Great Annual Balfour Avenue Street Sale will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2012 from 9am3pm. For information, contact Lona at lmcrae@uvic.ca or 250-721-6197. Graffiti Paint-Out Event - Saturday, January 21 Join us for this important community cleanup event. Everyone is welcome. What: Painting over graffiti along Gorge Road When: Saturday January 21, 2012 from 11 am to 2 pm Where: Meet at the Legion Trafalgar/Pro Patria Branch 292, 411 Gorge Rd E Paint and supplies provided. Please bring appropriate painting attire. RSVP to Darb at derickson@victoria.ca or (250)361-0580 by Weds, Jan. 18. This event is dependant on decent weather. In the case of inclement weather we will reschedule the event to the following weekend, Sat, Jan 28.
e're excited to offer some cool new programs in our youth centre this year - and all your old favourites too! Check out the activity guide inside for more details. Monday - Girl Stuff Wednesday - Guy Stuff Thursday - Dinner Drop-in Friday - Drop-in Night Saturday - Drop-in Day & Yoga for Teens Plus Life Skills Certificate Program Tillicum School Pro D Day Camps
urnside Gorge runs Pro D Day camps for students in grade 4 and 5 at Tillicum Elementary School. So far this year, students have been whisked away to experience some of the wonderful activities that Greater Victoria has to offer. Starting each morning off right, Youth Recreation Programmer, Emmalee Brunt wakes up in the wee hours of the morning to cook up her famous pancake breakfasts for the campers while they enjoy the many activities in the Youth Centre. October’s camp excursion was a blast with campers bundled-up at Goldstream Park learning how to build campfires and enjoying a marshmallow roast, with firewood graciously donated by George and Charlene in the West Shore! Thank you again! November’s camp was another success, as students learned hands-on at Boston Pizza the art of making a good pizza. Not only did the Blanshard Boston Pizza let campers in before opening for the day, but they let students into the kitchen to see how a restaurant works and make their own pizzas! Wow! Thanks again Boston Pizza!
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