St. John's Communauté Nouvelles

What began as a spur-of-the-moment thought to give away a few boxes of Christmas decorations has turned into a rallied network of support for those in need. CBC reporter Amy Stoodley told Weekend AM Saturday that the idea came from a young family group on Facebook that she's a part of.

A group of artists and volunteers that sells locally-made Christmas cards will donate the money raised this year to the family of Justin Frampton. Frampton, 34, died on Nov. 23 from glioblastoma, leaving behind a wife and two children.

Alan Doyle is no stranger to awards. Usually it's for his music. At a gala dinner on Wednesday night the actor, author and musician was honoured for his charity work by the Canadian Red Cross of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Avalon Mall was alight with the sights and sounds of the festive season as the annual Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign officially kicked off this week. There is an increased need this year with a goal of $650,000. Major John Goulding says they can't do it without the generous support of the public and the selfless work of volunteers.

A grant of $15,000 was given to a seniors facility in St. John's today to help train volunteers and caregivers on the importance of senior mental health. The Senior's Resource Centre in St. John's was the recipient of Bell Canada's Let's Talk Community Fund Grant this morning.

The committee behind Corner Brook's first Habitat for Humanity homes is looking for some volunteer muscle to help two families move in by February. Construction started this fall, and the duplex on Petries Street is taking shape.