The Poverty in Modern Times (2016) and Profiles of Courage (2017) were limited edition calendars produced and sold locally. The calendars were the product of a Social Justice Committee of Nelson United Church that sponsored the Nelson Calendar Project from 2015 to 2017.
The 2016 calendar was made up of photographs taken by those who live complex and financially challenging lives, with the focus on what brought them hope. The 2017 calendar is all about the people — a glimpse into the real lives of those who struggle, yet persevere.
Their aim was to highlight the fact that poverty exists in Nelson and that many of those who live this reality may not always be so easy to identify. For some, the calendars gave a voice to their lived experience. This project did make a difference in the lives of those who participated and for some, it still does.
Poverty is neither pretty nor simple, and it’s not always obvious. Perhaps, just for a moment, we could suspend judgement, and listen. The calendars depict stories of individuals living in poverty in Nelson showing photographs they took and, in the latest calendar, featuring their personal lived experiences.
The funds received from the sales of the calendars totalled about $4,500 after expenses. The Calendar Project shared the proceeds with ANKORS, Nelson CARES Society, and Nelson Community Services, who work daily to support those in need.
Each received a cheque for $1,000. The remaining funds will be available as “low-to-no” interest loans. From this fund a loan of $500 has already been made possible for an individual to purchase a trailer. He is now housed.
We extend our heart-felt gratitude to each and every one who supported this project: The Nelson Star, Vogue Photographic, Hall Printing, Otter Books, John Ward Coffee, and each and every citizen who purchased a calendar in support of a vision to encourage change and invite a dialogue of hope, inclusion and dignity.
Bernadette White
Nelson
Project Manager, 2017 Calendar Project