Around Town

Tomorrow is the last day for the Riverside Foundation for Health Care silent action Christmas Appeal. Bidding ends at 4 p.m. Friday. See the collection of unique, locally sourced gifts at riversidefoundation.ca/christmas-appeal. All proceeds will go towards making the Rainycrest activity room more functional and beautiful.

Fall Workshops with Fort Frances Museum have returned! Christmas Floral Arrangements will be held at the Metis Hall, Dec. 12. For more information on times and prices, call the museum at 274-7891, visit www.fortfrances.ca/museum or visit the Fort Frances Museum on Facebook. Registration is by phone, Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A collection drive for the Out of the Cold Centre is being organized by Fort Frances GM staff, on December 17. Curbside pick-up will be provided for those who register. The facility is in need of new socks, underwear, toiletries, winter gear, clothing, snacks and other items. For more information, or to sign up, call 274-5321 or visit Fort Frances GM on Facebook.

The Rainy River Valley Field Naturalists are looking for individuals to participate in the annual Christmas Birch Count, which will take place December 19. Head out on your own, or bring your social bubble! You can even participate from home with your own backyard feeder. For more information or to join, e-mail Ilka at boghunter@yahoo.ca, or visit rrvfn.org.


A stuff-a-bus for pets is being organized for December 19, from 2-6 p.m. at the Peterbilt parking lot on McIrvine Road. All items will be donated to local rescue organizations. On the wish list are new or used blankets, leashes and collars for cats or dogs. Wet or dry pet food, treats, non-clumping litter, latex gloves, garbage bags, food storage bags and pet toys.

Tickets are on sale for the Riverside Foundation for Health Care monthly 50/50 draw. Last month’s pot was more than $18,000! Makes a great stocking stuffer! All proceeds benefit our local healthcare network. To buy your December tickets, visit www.riversidefoundation.ca/5050.

If you have questions for the Medical Officer of health, Dr. Kit Young Hoon, she participates in a live Question and Answer session every second Thursdays at 1 p.m. over facebook Live at the NWHU Facebook page. You can also access the chat through GoToMeeting, with links available here: https://www.nwhu.on.ca/covid19/Pages/public-sessions.aspx.

The Fort Frances Senior’s Centre is resuming activities, both on and off site. The arena auditorium will host BINGO, each Friday ay 1:30, beginning November 6. Tai Chi will be held Wednesday mornings, beginning November 4. The workshop is currently open, one or two days a week. For more information or to book an appointment to participate, call Cindy Noble at 271-2021.

Volunteer opportunities

The La Verendrye Gift Shop is in need of volunteers, willing to work in the shop an afternoon or two a month. The Shop will be open Monday-Friday from 12:30 to 4 p.m. All safety precautions are in place. A great way to support fundraising for ‘care close to home’. Contact Marnie Cumming at 274-3368 for more information.

Ring a bell and help change a life by volunteering as a Bellringer with The Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign. The fundraiser kicks-off on FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13 and will run through to Wednesday, December 23. Kettle locations will vary between Walmart, Safeway, and The Place. The only requirements are a willingness to volunteer and a minimum of two hours.To volunteer call 807-271-2429 or email fort.bellringer@salvationarmy.ca.

The LaVerendrye Auxiliary is searching for a volunteer to lead a well-established team to operate the Gift Shop, raising funds for ‘care close to home’. Shop Workers are already in place along with an active Shop Committee specializing in seasonal events. Contact Marnie Cumming at 274-3368 to discuss this very worthwhile volunteer opportunity.

The Rainy River Women’s Institute Emo Museum is searching for volunteers for a variety of activities and events. Individuals interested in joining the board are also welcome. For more information, call Annie Van Rozen, at 482-3991.

The Senior’s Companion Project is looking for volunteers to chat with seniors who feel isolated, through the Friendly Phone Call program. To find out what’s involved, call 274-271-6370 or e-mail seniorsproject@#fortfrances.ca.

The Legion Ladies Auxiliary to Branch 29 is always on the lookout for new members! If you would like to know more about joining this group of fun and hard working ladies please contact Cindy Noble at 271-2021 or Joanne Gosselin at 274-5932.

The LaVerendrye General Hospital Auxiliary is seeking several individuals to round out its Executive. Current vacancies include Vice-President and Foundation Representative and Member at Large. Connect with them on Facebook, at LaVerendrye General Hospital Auxiliary, or contact President Linda Booth at 276-4250 or Marnie Cumming at 274-3368.