By CONNOR BARRY
“It really started as a spot to be able to connect people that wanted to help other people and connect people that needed things,” said Alicia Nicholson, moderator and founder of the Facebook group PeopleFORCE NB.
Since its inception in 2018, PeopleFORCE NB members have endeavoured to support the community and to lend a helping hand when needed.
“PeopleFORCE is a safe place to bring neighbours together. At some point in our lives, each and every one of us could use a helping hand. Additionally, at some point, many can lend a hand. Maybe it’s a ride to work, help with childcare, some lawn care for a senior, or a second set of hands for heavy lifting… the opportunities are countless,” according to the PeopleFORCE NB Facebook page. “A small act of kindness can have a tremendous impact.”
Supports commonly offered in the group also include used books and furniture, childcare products, diapers, and more.
“I think we fill a gap between food banks and community pantries and kitchens where they are more structured and this is more people helping people,” Nicholson said. “It’s not … something that’s government funded [and] there’s no money put into it; it’s just someone saying I need help with something, and someone else stepping up.”
The group currently hosts more than 6,000 posts a month and boasts over 10,000 members, according to Nicholson.
The group currently serves Fredericton and Woodstock areas but is open to requests and offers from across the province.
“I just think it’s a great opportunity for just people to connect, and if they have something that they can help with, they can offer that up, and it’s a spot for people to go if they really need help,” Nicholson said. “You normally see people who receive something from the group initially, sort of contributing and giving back eventually.”
Group members have no obligation to give anything and are encouraged to join, even just as an emergency resource for people.
