The organizers of the Keeping Seniors Warm are appealing to the public to help them raise the money they need to support the 100 seniors that will benefit from the program this year.
Bev Brisco, executive member of the Keep Seniors Warm committee, said the past year has been tough on all fundraisers.
“It has been a terrible year for fundraising,” Brisco said. “Many people have lost their jobs, it has been a horror show for many, and money is really tight right now. Every dollar is accounted for, and it’s difficult for people to donate even $1 at this point.”
With the Keeping Seniors Warm event scheduled for Nov. 3, the committee has partnered with Giant Tiger on Lasalle Boulevard for a round-up-your purchase event. From Sept. 3-5, shoppers can choose to round up to the next dollar amount on their purchase, or they can simply make a donation at the cash register.
“We’re hoping and praying that we can get enough money in the bank that we’re able to make sure we can take care of the 100 seniors,” said Brisco. “If we don’t raise enough money, we will have to cut back on the number of seniors we help, and that’s a real difficult situation we don’t want to be in. So it’s important we get the support on this this year.”
Brisco said the seniors that are part of the program are truly grateful for the support.
“These seniors haven’t had new winter boots in years, or a new coat,” she said. “Some of the stories you hear just break your heart.”
Participating seniors are registered through the City of Greater Sudbury. Keeping Seniors Warm is an initiative of the Greater Sudbury Seniors Advisory Panel and seeks to address the need for warm clothing for our winters, as well as isolation for seniors in our community.
The fundraiser happens the weekend before school starts, and Brisco said it will be busy at Giant Tiger.
“We’re just hoping people will continue to be generous so we can continue to help seniors this year,” she said.
More information about the Keeping Seniors Warm event is available on their website. You can also donate to Keeping Seniors Warm at any time. All donations over $10 are eligible for a tax receipt.