Heidelberg is a Caring Community

Everything that needs to be said about living in a caring community, can be illustrated by taking a ‘snap shot’ look at Heidelberg, Ontario. Heidelberg is an amazing people place. It is comprised of approximately 500 residents. In truth, everybody does not know everybody. In fact, for me, only some of the 500 are close friends; the rest I know only by reputation - they are neighbours who care and show concern for one another in concrete ways.

For many Heidelbergers, it is easy to meet the neighbours. When you move in, have a new baby, experience a death in the family, or sometimes for no apparent reason - there is a knock on the door. Very often homemade muffins, an apple pie or a hot meal for the whole family arrives. I’ve heard neighbours who have experienced this hospitality say "I don’t really know the family who delivered this - it is very considerate - this is just amazing!"

Equally amazing is Heidelberg Public School. The number of children attending is small, but the effect the school has on families and the community is GIGANTIC.

Unique to this school is the annual Thanksgiving Day School Lunch. This meal is prepared and served by the students and family members. A full turkey dinner with homemade pumpkin pie (made by grade one’s and two’s) is served. Local dignitaries and school board personnel are invited. The French teacher and students deliver Thanksgiving dinners to senior residents in the neighbourhood.

Linda Adams, Heidelberg