B OPINION Continued from page 32 foods can be problematic, likecanned navy beans and those are heavily featured in donation boxes. Often unhoused people or the elderly have issues with dental care access and require soft foods and soups, or mane prepared options. Others are on liq- uid diets and rely on meal replacement drinks like Boost and Ensure. Pre-cut packaged perishables are best for those with motor skill issues or people who can't easily chop foods for a variety of reasons. Beyond food, 30 per cent oft the: population have poor My and have terrible reactions from scented products, which include nose bleeds. Similarly, if you're donat- ing period products (good for you!) try to find un- scented, unbleached, plas- Erin Caton photo A counter full of allergy safe foods (including coconut milk, rice noodles, gluten-free flours and noodles, gluten- and dairy-free cookies, dairy-free crackers, and kids snacks), unscented dish soap and natural ingredient-based period products. tic-free options as they are suitable for more people. When you're buying baby diapers, ie for adults too. They will be greatly appreciated. Even service animals could use donations, so if you're buy- ing for your pet, pick up an extra bag. Ultimately, donatin; money directly to disabled people in need is the best option, because no one knows the details of their situation better than the people themselves. In lieu of that option, if it's the thought that counts, then putting this extra bit of thought into your dona- tions will make yours count even more. Happy holidays, and thank you for thinking of others. Erin Caton is the Chair of the Environmental Sen- sitivities Coalition of Can- ada. For more informa- tion, see www.environ- mentalsensitivities.org. For more accessibility tips, follow @erin on Twitter. Fruit Pies Meat pies Loaf Cakes Butter Tarts 8605 Heritage Rd Brampton Award Winning Apple Cider _-l0sed Dec 25 & 26 Jan 4 905 455-8202 www.alferriandssons.ca CARPET, HARDWOOD, RUGS & TILE ls carrer BARN caRPET ONE ‘Floor and Horne The One Store For Your Perfect Floor 26 Guelph own wvecapeloneca htpearpetonegeorgtown galdbook.ca 905-877-9896 aa Movers and Shakers Marketplace To advertise in this full colour directory please call Kelli 905-873-7162 or email kkosonic@theifp.ca WINDOWS &S IDING Since 1985 WINDOWS + DOORS - SIDING CALIFORNIA SHUTTERS 2873-0841 www.winside.ca a BBB a ry oO 4 > i “iq 3 =x zB s s Woz ‘ez sequieseg ‘Aepsinyy, eordyouy