Shoppers and staff at Asselin Your Independent Grocer in Hawkesbury raised $16,827 for the Hawkesbury Central Food Bank during the holiday season. The store also donated to the L’Orignal and Vankleek Hill food banks.
The fundraiser, running from November 11 to December 13, allowed customers to make cash donations or purchase $100 pre-packaged food bags. In total, 1,126 bags were sold, with one cashier selling 300 alone. Standout contributions included a $1,000 donation from a single shopper who bought 100 bags.
Store owner Daniel Asselin said the food bags had a retail value of around $20,000, with the store covering labour and profit margins. “We couldn’t have done this without the community’s generosity,” said campaign organizer Lefebvre, praising local support for those in need.