Rotary Club of Windsor-St. Clair partners with Sobeys to feed community

By: Matt Weinagrden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter

As part of a county-wide initiative called Rotary Feeds Our Community, the Rotary Club of Windsor-St. Clair recently participated in one of 10 coordinated food drives, with each area-specific club supporting a local food bank.

The Windsor-St. Clair chapter organized porch pick-ups and drop-off locations to collect non-perishable food items and monetary donations. The drive was held in partnership with several local businesses, including Zehrs and Sobeys St. Clair Beach, whose support helped amplify the campaign’s reach.

Food and donations collected by the club were distributed to three organizations serving vulnerable populations: Windsor Goodfellows, Canterbury College at the University of Windsor, and St. John’s Church in Sandwich.

According to Phyllis and Paul Charbonneau, both past presidents of the Rotary Club of Windsor-St. Clair, the drive was a resounding success. “We were overwhelmed by the generosity of our community,” said Phyllis Charbonneau. “It’s heartening to see neighbours coming together to support those in need.”

In total, the club collected two truckloads of food and more than $1,200 in cash donations, which were divided among the three food banks to help stock shelves and support ongoing outreach programs.

Rotary members say the initiative not only addressed immediate food insecurity but also strengthened community ties. Volunteers of all ages took part, from longtime Rotarians to first-time participants, reflecting the club’s commitment to service above self.

The Windsor-St. Clair club also acknowledged the vital role of Sobeys staff, who helped coordinate logistics and promote the drive in-store. “This kind of collaboration is what makes our community stronger,” said Paul Charbonneau. “We’re grateful to Sobeys and all our partners for stepping up.”

Across Essex County, Rotary clubs echoed similar sentiments, thanking residents for their continued generosity and support. The Rotary Feeds Our Community initiative is expected to return next year with expanded goals and outreach.

In a photo taken during the drive, members Carlo Abati, Phyllis Charbonneau, Debra Harshaw, Alan Drouillard and Paul Charbonneau are pictured alongside Sobeys employees Miranda, Virginia and Zina — a snapshot of teamwork in action.

For more information on how to support future Rotary initiatives, visit rotary.org or contact your local chapter.