A local grocery store is stepping up once again to help out those in need in the community.
The Fort Frances Safeway is now running its annual food bank donation campaign. The campaign runs until Christmas Eve, with all donations benefiting the Salvation Army Fort Frances.
“We also have our match weekend this weekend, on the 13th and 14th of December; every dollar raised is matched by Sobeys,” said Keifer Childerhose, Safeway’s manager.
“It’s a chance to double up on donations.”
Ultimately, last year’s campaign raised about $10,000, bringing huge benefits to those in need who access the Salvation Army’s services. This year, Childerhose said, the store is hoping to smash the heights achieved in previous years.
“I’m hoping to surpass our goal from last year,” he said.
“We’re always trying to outdo ourselves. We are currently just shy of $4,000, and we’re only just over a week in. So, we’re making some great progress already.”
The dedication and cheer of Safeway’s staff and the community of Fort Frances drive this campaign, and with the rising
costs of living and food inse-
curity on the rise, Childerhose
said Safeway Fort Frances is
happy to be able to step in and
help out the Salvation Army in
their mission.
“It’s really nice this time of
year to help the Salvation Army
when they’re in most need,”
Childerhose said.
“Everyone needs just a little
bit of extra help this time of
year. It’s nice to see the commu-
nity donate to a good cause.”
While Childerhose has a firm
love of Christmas sweaters, his
favourite part of the season is
the sense of togetherness and
time spent with family. He also
admires one of his employees,
Loni Brun, for her fundraising
efforts.
“She’s very approachable
and confident when speaking
with customers. What sets her
apart is that she makes the ask
in a friendly, natural way that
doesn’t feel pushy,” said Chil-
derhose.
“She explains the purpose of
the campaign clearly, keeps the
interaction positive, and makes
customers feel like even a small
contribution makes a real differ-
ence. Her genuine enthusiasm
is what gets results.”
For her part, Brun said she
enjoys being able to help those
in the community through her
work at Safeway.
“I absolutely enjoy being
a part of the foodbank cam-
paign,” said Brun. “I love when
everyone comes together to cel-
ebrate, family or not.”
