Cancer campaign begins Wednesday

Canvassers for the Acton Branch of the Canadian Cancer Society will be out in full force selling daffodils as (from left) branch president and daffodil convener Cathy Gerrow, campaign co-ordinator Liz Bailey and longtime volunteer Rena Arbic checked out the daffodils at Blooms Away Flower Shop in preparation of the upcoming blitz. Wednesday (March 28) the branch is hosting a volunteer appreciation dinner at Knox Presbyterian Church in Acton at 6 p.m., to thank drivers, canvassers and volunteers for their contribution to the campaign.

The Acton Branch of the Canadian Cancer Society kicks off its campaign Wednesday with canvassers getting ready to get out into their neighbourhoods and knock on doors throughout April. "We're keeping our fingers crossed that it will be a nice weather," said campaign chair Liz Bailey. She said they are hoping to raise approximately $34,000 this year. Money raised goes to the Canadian Cancer Society, mostly for cancer research, but also for patient support including transportation and support groups. The campaign officially kicks off with a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner Wednesday evening and volunteers will be selling daffodils Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday outside of Sobeys. A bunch will be $6, or two for $10. Bailey said although they have most areas covered in the town, canvassers are still needed in the Kingham Rd./ Berry St./Grenore Cr./Duby Rd. area, and desperately required to knock on doors in the Rachlin Dr., Kenney St. and Beardmore Cr. area, as well as in the Acto Valley subdivision. "In general, if someone wants to canvass we can certainly find them an area," said Bailey. Bailey said canvassers do not have to provide a huge commitment of time to the campaign. Only three to four hours will be required throughout the entire month of April and they would likely only have to canvass approximately 20 homes. "They can go out one night when the weather is nice and meet their neighbours," said Bailey. "We have had high school students do it for their volunteer hours." She said Acton's rural areas are well covered with canvassers. Captains in the rural area are Marjorie Britton, Sharon Anderson and Barb Robinson. Bailey said they are hoping to have another successful year. "My goal is to always do as well if not better than last year's campaign," said Bailey. Over the past five years the campaign has brought in approximately $34,000 annually. Bailey is stepping down after April as campaign chair, a position she has held for 18 years. She will continue volunteering with the Acton branch of the Cancer Society however. Bailey said the campaign chair position has been filled by Elaine Thomas. Anyone interested in volunteering as a canvasser is asked to call Bailey at 519-853-0585. (Lisa Tallyn can be reached at ltallyn@independentfreepress.com)