By Kayla Bruch

Local family pays it forward

Dec 28, 2014 | 11:02 AM

There are many charities in need of support, especially over the holidays.

This is why the Carter family decided the best way to celebrate Christmas was by helping organizations within Prince Albert.

Jacqui Hopkins is one of the original members of Team 4 Hope, a charity which started in 2011. She said this year was Maryanne Carter’s turn to pick a cause and she picked their charity.

“She approached us probably I would say six weeks, eight weeks ago and said that, you know, every year one family member takes a turn picking a cause rather than giving Christmas gifts. They’ve been doing this I think she said for about six years now,” said Hopkins.

On Dec. 23 Hopkins along with another teammate met with the Carter family at 4 horseman fitness to accept their holiday donation. The women were overwhelmed by the amount of gift cards, toys, books, mittens, cash, cards and more.

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“I was just so absolutely touched and amazed by a family that’s having their own struggles right now, that choose(s) to pay it forward to somebody else,” said Hopkins. “I think that’s important for the community to know because the community is very much giving to Arabella and to their cause, I think it’s important that the community knows that they are giving back.”

Hopkins said this isn’t the first time the Carter family has stepped up to help the team.

“They have supported lots of the things that we do, they always come to our Handbags for Hope event, they donated to our Amazing Race that we did in conjunction with Big Brothers Big Sisters,” she said.

When asked why Maryanne picked this charity to help yet again, Hopkins said she likes donating to causes which benefit children.

“I guess maybe because with her granddaughter, maybe not being sick with cancer but having issues in her life as well she felt like it was the cause she wanted to pick,” said Hopkins.

Hopkins said any children’s items or gift cards they receive are given directly to families in Western Canada who are supporting children who are suffering from Neuroblastoma.

If your family is struggling because of Neuroblastoma or you would like to donate to the cause you can visit their website or call 306- 961-2600.

kbruch@panow.com

On Twitter: @KaylaBruch1