Editor:
As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Canadians with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods —merchandise that has been produced at the expense of Canadian labour. This year can be different with Canadians showing genuine concern for other Canadians by buying locally-produced goods and services. Other countries can do the same – buy local.
Extravagant givers can skip the flat-screen and give the gift of lawn mowing services for the summer, or games at the local golf course.
Give a gift certificate for an oil change for their vehicle done at the local shop, for local hair salons or barbers, services of the local cleaning lady, a computer tune-up from local computer services, local crafts and art, the local theatre and musicians, local restaurants, or gym memberships.
Local charities like the SPCA, Cowichan Community Land Trust, and many more always appreciate donations.
Christmas is now about caring about Canada, encouraging Canadian small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. When we care about other Canadians, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn’t imagine.
This is the new Canadian Christmas tradition.
Buy Canadian, be Canadian; the job you save may be your own.