By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
In a heartwarming display of community generosity and tradition, the Brad and Joanne Stannard Memorial Pie Auction at the Harrow Fair shattered previous fundraising records on Thursday, August 28, raising an astounding $118,150 for the John McGivney Children’s Centre (JMCC). The funds will directly support specialized pediatric rehabilitation services for children and youth with physical, neurological, and developmental needs across Windsor–Essex.
The auction, now in its 29th year, has become a beloved fixture of the Harrow Fair and a powerful symbol of grassroots philanthropy. What began as a modest fundraiser in honour of Todd Stannard—a young boy born with spina bifida who received support through Red Cross programs, the predecessor of JMCC—has grown into a cornerstone event for the region. That first auction raised just $350. Today, the cumulative total has reached $601,222, a testament to the enduring commitment of the Stannard family and the surrounding community.
“For over 45 years, we’ve been proud to offer these vital services,” said Jennifer Jovanovski, CEO of JMCC. “This incredibly generous contribution ensures we can continue enabling every child we serve to reach their fullest potential.”
The auction is led by Mark and Lisa Stannard, Todd’s brother and sister-in-law, along with their sons Philip and Owen, who have carried the torch forward with passion and purpose. Each year, the event draws in spirited auctioneers, talented bakers, and generous donors, all united by a shared goal: to transform lives, one pie at a time.
“This experience is more than fundraising—it’s about honouring legacy, building community, and supporting children who deserve every opportunity to thrive,” said Mark Stannard. “We’re humbled by the continued support and proud to see Todd’s memory live on in such a meaningful way.”
This year’s total surpassed last year’s record of $117,500, reaffirming the event’s growing impact. Pies—some elaborately decorated, others steeped in family recipes—were auctioned off to enthusiastic bidders, with proceeds going directly to JMCC’s wide range of services. These include occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, physiotherapy, augmentative communication, therapeutic recreation, seating and mobility, school-based rehabilitation, and autism services.
The funds raised will help JMCC continue its mission of providing leading-edge care tailored to each child’s unique needs. The Centre serves hundreds of families across Windsor–Essex, offering not just therapy but hope, empowerment, and a sense of belonging.
“Our heartfelt thanks go to the dedicated bakers, spirited auctioneers, generous donors, and the entire community,” added Jovanovski. “Together, we’re transforming lives, one pie at a time.”
The Harrow Fair, one of Ontario’s oldest agricultural fairs, has long been a platform for community engagement and charitable giving. The pie auction stands out as a shining example of how local traditions can evolve into powerful vehicles for change.
As the final pie was sold and the crowd cheered, one thing was clear: the spirit of Harrow, and the legacy of the Stannard family, continues to rise—just like the perfect pie crust.
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