A call for action produces perfect results

- Community Support Centre of Essex County receives needed donations

submitted to EFP Last week, local businessman Michael Dunn made a $10,000 donation to the Community Support Centre (CSC) of Essex County. When he did that, he also issued a challenge to others in the community. If someone would step up and donate $20,000, he would match that donation too – bringing the total received by the CSC to $50,000. When Rick Anderson read that, he just knew that the Belle River/Rochester Goodfellows had to step in to help. The Goodfellows have spent years accumulating a reserve through their community dinners and paper sales, and felt that now is the time to put the money to use. Anderson said: “These are very unusual circumstances and we all need to work together to get through this. That is what the Goodfellows do when our community needs us!” Upon hearing of the Goodfellows donation, Mike Dunn says he “is humbled by this news. I work with the Goodfellows too, and this is great news for the community at large and will certainly help with food security.” The CSC’s Board Chair, Nicole Strong said: “There are so many amazing people in this community. The Community Support Centre would like to express its sincere gratitude to Mike Dunn and also to the Goodfellows.” This call for action also inspired many local residents and business owners to donate to the Community Food Pantry. Since the challenge was issued, The CSC has received just over $18,500 in donations as well as many food donations brought directly to the Food Pantry. Tracey Bailey, CSC CEO says: “Our partnership with the Goodfellows and seeing the community come together like this is very heartwarming.” Now, more than ever, our community members need assistance, encouragement and relief. The Community Support Centre is here to give a hand up. The CSC will soon launch a drive-thru food hub for those experiencing food insecurity. Be sure to follow us on our social media pages for exact dates and times.