Bells of Christmas Campaign Launches in Owen Sound to Honor Ann Kelly

The Bells of Christmas gift-giving campaign returns to the Owen Sound community this holiday season, continuing the legacy of its late founder, Ann Kelly. Initiated by the Owen Sound Attack, the program aims to provide personalized gifts to residents in long-term care homes, helping to spread holiday cheer to those who may feel isolated during the festive season.

Ann Kelly, who passed away on August 3, 2023, was a dedicated volunteer whose commitment to the community left a lasting impact. “Ann Kelly was truly a one-of-a-kind person, so selfless, generous and caring, all things that we will dearly miss with her passing,” stated Greg Hoddinott, the Attack’s manager of marketing and communications. Her passion for making the holidays special for everyone inspired the program that continues to flourish in her memory.

Community Engagement and Participation

The Bells of Christmas program collaborates with local long-term care facilities, encouraging them to identify residents who would benefit from this initiative. Staff at these facilities provide gift ideas, which are attached to crocheted bells and displayed on a Christmas tree at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.

Members of the public can select a bell from the tree and purchase the suggested gifts for the chosen individual. The wrapped gifts, complete with their attached bells, are then returned to the Bayshore. Volunteers ensure that all gifts are collected and subsequently distributed to the respective long-term care facilities.

A new 12-foot Christmas tree, generously donated by Barry’s Construction, will be installed in the lobby of the community centre. The crocheted bells will be placed on the tree on November 21, 2023. Historically, the bells are quickly claimed, with participants traveling from as far as Kitchener to contribute to the campaign.

The Owen Sound Attack is asking that all wrapped gifts be returned to the Bayshore by December 8, 2023, to ensure timely distribution. Long-term care facilities not currently involved in the Bells of Christmas program can contact Lee Anne O’Leary at 519-371-7452 for more information.

Remembering a Community Leader

Ann Kelly was known for her humility, often preferring to be referred to as Mrs. Claus in media stories. A respected community volunteer, she previously served as a city councillor and worked as a reporter and columnist for the Sun Times. Throughout her life, she was an advocate for numerous community initiatives, including the Festival of Northern Lights, and was awarded the June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for her volunteer efforts.

Kelly’s influence extended beyond her organizational work; she was also celebrated for her baking skills, known for making delightful treats such as date squares, pies, and sugar cookies. “Her ability to see a need in our community, put in place a plan of action and rally support for a program was astounding,” Hoddinott reflected. “We are truly honoured to have the opportunity to continue her amazing work, and to do it in her name.”

As the Bells of Christmas campaign launches once again, the Owen Sound community rallies together to honor Ann Kelly’s spirit while spreading joy to those in need this holiday season.