After more than a decade of being out of service, the Welcome Wagon has restarted in the South Cariboo.
The program supports families by providing a gift basket full of community information, handy items and gift certificates to new parents or new residents.
Local Welcome Wagon representative Jan Simpson says she has been working hard since last fall to set up the program, finding sponsors to provide the gifts, and preparing other family supports.
"We provide a welcoming service to families during lifestyle changes, such as
moving to a new community or having a baby."
This often includes home visits and assisting newcomers and new parents with questions about the community and its services, she explains.
"Anybody can call. If someone is far out of town, I can maybe meet them at a coffee shop somewhere."
The first two families Simpson presented with baskets have new babies, so many of the gifts were tailored toward infant items. The balance included certificates that virtually any family could use, from automotive to electronics and from coffee shops to 100 Mile House Free Press subscriptions.
So far, a total of 34 businesses are sponsoring the community baskets, she notes.
"Welcome Wagon has had great support from our local businesses."
The Community Basket currently has a value of more than $350, while the Baby Welcome Basket is worth more than $175.
Sponsors can also gain something back from their support, as promotional items and local business information are among the helpful items, Simpson adds.
Folks can find Welcome Wagon on Facebook, in 100 Mile House Free Press advertising, or by calling Simpson at 250-395-1380, 250-706-9744, or e-mailing her at simpson.jan@shaw.ca.