By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
People helping people. Families helping families – the theme of the day at Sobeys St. Clair Beach – on Family Day.
The 6th annual “Food for Families on Family Day” initiative helps to relieve economic burdens on those at risk in the community. To date, the event has raised over $120,000 throughout the years to assist the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society (WECAS).
This year, $21,500 was raised to help buy food to help support families that are supported by WECAS.
Over 100 volunteers packed well over 1,300 bags of groceries that have been donated with the help of local businesses: Co-operators – PLP Financial Services Inc., Sobeys St. Clair Beach, LendCity Mortgages, Signature Realty, Rafih Auto Group and Borrelli Gourmet Foods.
Also, on hand to help bag groceries included Dartis Willis, owner of Windsor Express, and several members of the Windsor Express basketball team.
Event organizer Paul Lue Pann is a Financial Planner with Co-Operators, the main sponsor of the event.
“This came about after learning that many food banks are short at this time of year,” said Lue Pann. “And what better way to celebrate Family Day than by helping other families …we’re looking after our community.”
Lue Pann said that partnering with Sobeys was a logical choice.
“This is a very special day for us…it’s great to see so many volunteers help to make this happen for the Children’s Aid,” said Rob Hayes, general manager at Sobeys St. Clair Beach. “This event is a key part of our core values at Sobeys.”
Tina Allen is the manager of community outreach at WECAS and is grateful for the boost to their organization.
“Food donated today will go to help 1387 families, as we know that food insecurity is a huge issue right now with our families being the most vulnerable to food inflation and costs,” she explained. “This is a way for the community to come together and support them. We’re very grateful for this cause.”
To learn more about WECAS or to donate, please visit: https://www.wecaf.on.ca/
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