Walk brings in big bucks for ‘Community Chest’

The generosity of the area—and residents’ commitment to charities—was evident here Sunday afternoon as about 40 people raised $4,000 for the “Community Chest” during Canada Safeway’s inaugural “Family Fun Run.”
Safeway employee Cheryl Stuart, with the help of her daughter, Samantha, was the top fundraiser, garnering $900 in pledges.
“I believe it’s a good cause. One day, we all may need it—you never know,” she reasoned.
“Everybody seemed to want to contribute. People were very generous,” added Stuart, who credited her daughter with getting most of the pledges.
Chelsea Mosley was second in pledges, raising $650, while Bonnie Penney was third ($530).
There were prizes for the top three fundraisers, including a digital camera and DVD player from Sight & Sound (first place), a La-Z Boy chair from Green’s Countrywide Furniture & Appliances (second), and a $150 gift certificate for La Place Rendez-Vous (third).
Stuart organized the event along with fellow Safeway employee Michelle Mosley, store manager Mike Scott, and assistant manager Corey Delbridge.
“For a first time, we thought things went extremely well. The community was really behind it,” noted Stuart.
“Community Chest” volunteers helped out with the registration at the Safeway parking lot before the walk began.
Under a blazing sun, the walk started at 1 p.m. from Safeway and wrapped up at La Place Rendez-Vous, following the riverfront with the help of an OPP escort.
Participants were greeted at the Rendez-Vous with a complimentary barbecue lunch.
In related news, some tickets are still available for the “Community Chest” raffle for a 2002 Ford Mustang convertible, which will be drawn Sept. 27.
Tickets cost $20 each, which are available at Safeway’s customer service or from “Community Chest” partners.
The “Community Chest” committee is comprised of volunteers from the local Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis Club, Lions Club, the “Spirit of Christmas,” and the Rendez-Vous.
Its purpose is to provide financial aid to local families who may need help to cover medical costs.
Safeway employees adopted the “Community Chest” as their charity for 2002.