Three Oliver businesses are helping some parents out in a big way by participating in a special program that gives moms and dads some much-needed respite.
The Oliver Theatre, Pappa’s Firehall Bistro and the Coast Oliver Hotel have jumped on the “respitality” bandwagon to help the Dragonfly Pond Family Society assist parents looking after children with complex care needs. Another big financial supporter of the “respitality” program is the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan.
Coordinator Deb Morrow said she was really impressed how these businesses didn’t hesitate for a second to donate to the program. The theatre donated 12 movie passes with popcorn, while the bistro donated six $25 gift certificates, and the hotel offered six room stays. Morrow noted that drumming up donations was never as easy as it was in Oliver that day.
Dragonfly Pond Family Society is a non-profit organization that supports families with children up to 18 years of age who have complex care needs and/or disabilities, such as autism and fetal alcohol syndrome.
The respitality program is a combination of respite and hospitality that provides parents with a free evening out to relax and rejuvenate before returning home refreshed. The only thing parents are responsible for is finding childcare.
Morrow said they are currently serving six families in Oliver.
For example, local parent Jo Simpson is benefitting from the “respitality” program. Her daughter Tia has autism but she’s very easy to care for, Simpson pointed out.
Both Simpson and her husband are looking forward to going out on the town – a date that will include eating at the Bistro and watching a movie.
“We don’t take advantage of this very often,” she noted, adding this program for parents is “awesome.” She tips her hat to the local businesses for making this possible.
If anyone is interested in donating or joining the society, contact Morrow at 250-490-3305 or [email protected].
