This is the last year for Derek Durkac’s lights display in support of the Edgar Burton Christmas Food Drive, but he’s going out with a bang.
He’s been named one of three “Metro Merrymakers” by the Metro grocery chain, a program which recognizes “everyday people doing extraordinary things to spread joy during the holidays to those who need it most.”
“As he prepares for his light show’s final year, Metro is proud to recognize him for his decades-long effort and plans to make 2024 his best year yet: setting Durkac up to net out at a lifetime donation of 15,000+ food items, Metro is donating 4,000 non-perishable foods to this year’s Edgar Burton Sudbury Food Drive in his name,” said a press release from Metro.
“I was totally overwhelmed when I heard Metro would be contributing 4,000 food items to the Edgar Burton Sudbury Christmas Food Drive on my behalf,” said Durkac. “I just want everybody to have a joyful holiday season.
“I’m very thankful for the support the community has shown all of these years by visiting the Durkac Festival of Lights and providing donations to the Edgar Sudbury Christmas Food Drive, and to Metro for one big final donation push.
“The final year of The Durkac Festival of Lights is in honour of my mom, dad and sister, who have all passed. I know they’re looking down from heaven watching the Christmas lights from above in peace!”
“During the holidays, the spirit of generosity and togetherness can be a beacon of hope for many. However, with one in five Canadians relying on charitable services in 2023 and a continued decline in donations over the years, it's clear that more support is needed,” said Joe Fusco, senior vice president of Metro.
“Our Metro Merrymakers exemplify the extraordinary impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities. By amplifying their efforts with $15,000 in community donations, Metro aims to help these Merrymakers spread even more joy and make an even bigger difference this Holiday Season.”
"I still remember the first time I delivered a collection box to the end of his driveway 9 years ago," said Owen Marcotte, one of Derek's colleagues and coordinator for the Edgar Burton Christmas Food Drive. "People like Derek are just like Santa: they don't come around every day, but when they do, they bring magic to the entire community."
“Over the years, Derek’s Christmas light shows have brought great joy to Sudburians and their families, as well as opportunities to help the Sudbury Food Bank feed our region’s hungry,” said Dan Xilon, executive director of Banque d’aliments Sudbury Food Bank. “Derek has made a true difference in our community, and we are so pleased to see him recognized as a Metro Merrymaker."
