People sharing goodwill with strangers and other acts of kindness by Calgarians

Throughout the month of December, CBC stations across the country invite you to help Make the Season Kind as we celebrate the kindness of others with special programming and coming together in support of local charities. 

In Calgary, for 37 years, residents have been donating to the Calgary Food Bank through CBC/Radio-Canada's annual Food Bank Drive, raising more than $22 million. This year, from Dec. 2 to 15, join us for special broadcasts, events, auctions and online sales while helping us reach our goal of $1 million to the Calgary Food Bank. Or attend one of our coffee and mug sales to make a donation and receive this year's limited edition One Knight Only mug and coffee beans from Fratello Coffee Roasters.

A new report says food banks in Canada have seen a major surge in visits throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and the high cost of living and ongoing economic disruption is bound to create countless new clients in the months ahead.

• Click here to donate to the Calgary Food Bank

Many of us have been impacted financially by the pandemic, limiting us in ways we might traditionally contribute. But there are many opportunities to spread generosity and kindness aside from making monetary donations. You can also put a smile on your face — and the faces of others — by spreading acts of kindness in your community.

Share your story with us of how you showed or received an act of kindness this year and be entered to win a local prize pack. Your act of kindness may even be featured on CBC Calgary. No act of kindness is too big or too small.

• See a full list of events happening throughout the month

Maybe you or someone you know picked up groceries for an elderly neighbour? Someone shoveled your walkway? Got a call from a long lost friend that made your day? 

Here are some of the wonderful stories we've received so far, with thanks to all who wrote or called in to CBC Calgary — and even more, to all of those who are carrying out these random acts of kindness in the community. We'll share more of these heart-warming acts that have been shared with us in the days ahead, on the Calgary Eyeopener, The Homestretch, News at 6  and the CBC Calgary's website and Instagram.

From Dayanara Jane Lumaguey:

One morning while I was walking to work, the road was so slippery due to black ice. I slipped as I was crossing the street. A stranger saw and approached me and helped me up and asked if I needed urgent care from the clinic or hospital. I could feel her sincerity and her concern about me. I was so touched with the kind gesture.

From Stephanie Varey:

Each time I see a person close to my home in the early mornings going through garbage bins while on my  walk, I let them know I will bring them back coffee and an on-the-go breakfast. I think it's more important to engage anyone going through a tough time with no judgment, and to share a friendly breakfast. It's a very little thing but I hope the small act matters over time.

From Roxie Laverty:

During rush hour on the CTrain after work, I was blocked into the middle part of the train and my stop was coming up. I started shuffling my way toward the doors. A group of young men saw me struggling to get through and hollered "Hey all, her stop is next, can we let her through?" People made a path and I exited onto the platform with the biggest smile on my face. I hope they know that their small act was so appreciated.

From Leslie Hill:

This year I decided to host someone from Ukraine who had left because of the war. I eventually ended up helping a couple of families get settled in Calgary. Every time I reached out to my community for items the families needed, I was surprised and thrilled with the generosity I witnessed. Friends offered furniture, kitchen supplies, clothing, bedding, and everything they needed to get set up. I am so grateful for the help we received to get them started in a good way.

From Andie Shaffer:

I was just finishing my first school year as an assistant principal. It had been a challenging job and I was worried that I wasn't doing enough for my staff and students. On the last day of school, one student who I didn't know very well ran up and handed me a written letter. She was thanking me for making her feel welcome every morning when I greeted students at the door. It meant the world to me. The thought that a student had gone out of her way to write me such kind words had me crying in my office. It was the best.

From Colin Pratley:

A house was destroyed in Woodbine this year, leaving a woman and child without food or shelter. I made up a bag of groceries and blankets and delivered it to her at a house one of the other members of the community allowed her and her child to stay at.

From Laura Margetts:

Two weeks ago I had hip replacement surgery. I knew I would need help at home after and I've been so blessed by the friends who have rallied around me. Friends have driven me for groceries, physio and best of all, coffee. I've received many meals and treats and so many phone calls and texts just to check in.

Again — you can share your story with us of how you showed or received an act of kindness this year through our online form here. You can also share your act of kindness by calling and leaving a message for the Calgary Eyeopener at 403-521-6209 or The Homestretch 403-521-6244.

You'll be entered in a chance to win prize packs that include: 

• Julie Van Rosendaal's You Are Human and You Need Cake cookbook
• A Sunnyside Milk Jar candle
• A $50 gift card to Bowtie Pizza
• Custom cookies from Cookie Momster YYC
• Chocolate gingerbread people from cōchu Chocolatier
• A custom CBC stocking from One Apparel
• A wooden CBC-engraved tree ornament
• A 12oz bag of One Knight Only coffee beans from Fratello Coffee Roasters
• A limited-edition One Knight Only coffee mug
• CBC Calgary winter swag (socks, toque, scarf)

Deadline to enter to win is Thursday, December 15 at noon MT.

• See the full schedule of events and more details about CBC Calgary's Make the Season Kind in support of the Calgary Food Bank here.