The Canada Post strike has entered its second week, ahead of one of the busiest times of the year, not just for those looking to ship gifts and mail letters to Santa, but for charities who rely on their services.
Calgary non-profit, Inn From The Cold, is one such organization feeling the pinch.
“With the postal strike happening, that’s 40 percent of our donations for the month of December that are in jeopardy,” said CEO Heather Morley. “So, we’ll send out those appeal letters and people will respond to them; 40 percent of our donations are from people who will actually write a check and send it through the mail, because we’ll provide a postage paid envelope in that appeal letter.”
Morley says donations can also be made online and over the phone.
“I mean you can find the envelope, you can get the stamp and find a mailbox, you know, I mean it’s possible. I am one of those old people that would still possibly do that if I had to, but online is way easier,” she added.
Some Calgarians are finding other ways to get make a difference, including donating their time.
“We’re looking at innovative ways to pivot to a new way of fundraising and encourage people,” Morley said. “Don’t forget about us.”
Canada Post workers say they want better healthcare, fairer watches, and strong job security.