KAWARTHA LAKES-The Fenelon Falls Sobeys store has collected more than $13,000 for the Salvation Army food drive.
The money was collected from donations made by the community when cashing out at the till during the holiday season and by employee donations. Officials from the grocery store presented the Salvation Army Fenelon Falls with over $13,000 in gift cards on Thursday afternoon.
“With this donation, we will be able to provide nutritious, healthy food to clients that would not otherwise be able to purchase fresh food.” Pastor Miya Bradburn said. “Having perishables such as fresh fruits and vegetables to supplement the nonperishables in a timely way is important for their health and well being.”
Sarah Winter, Assistant Store Manager says while the grocery store collected the funds it is the community that really came through for those less fortunate.
“We are so grateful that we are part of such a wonderful giving community that wants to give back.” Winters told Kawartha 411 News. “We are grateful to partner with the Salvation Army and provide services that are needed in our community.”
This year’s Kettle Campaign also raised over $51,000, surpassing its goal of $44,000. The local Christmas mailout raised over $60,000, surpassing its goal of $45,000. Bradburn adds, “this giving is on top of an incredible amount of food, gift cards, and toys that were donated – along with many volunteer hours to make the campaign work. And because all the money collected stays locally, residents can be assured that the funds will be used wisely to help those in need, all year long. This past Christmas, it provided special food hampers and toys to 150 families, and we are excited to start using the new kitchen and program space for community-based programming and community rentals once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.”
The new kitchen is now open and able to use some of that $13,000 donation.
