Rain doesn’t dampen block party spirits

by Sylene Argent

Though the Victoria Wellness Plaza’s fourth annual block party and community barbeque was met with rain at the beginning of the event on Friday evening, the spirits of the volunteers, community supporters, and business representatives of the plaza were not dampened.

  Visitors to the annual free event gathered beneath tents and awnings, while still enjoying a barbequed hotdog, a sweet treat, and perusing vendor tables, all while listening to local music duo, Rob and Kelly Sef, as they performed.

  A meat raffle and a 50/50 draw were also held, along with children’s activities and games, which added to even’s roster of festivities.  

  This was the fourth year the businesses within the Victoria Wellness Plaza got together to plan and host the event, in the plaza’s parking lot, for the community to enjoy on a Friday afternoon in August.

  Hosting the event for the businesses is a great way to thank the community for its support and to potentially bring more attention to the programs and services offered there. The majority of the businesses and organizations based out of the Victoria Wellness Plaza are related to health in someway.

  Members of the Rotary Club of Essex were onsite to hand out backpacks to children of families facing economic struggles. The local service club secured a grant to supply 100 students with back-to-school backpacks and supplies.

  The first distribution date was at the community barbeque. Essex Community Services will handout the remaining backpacks over the next few weeks. Pre-registration is required, along with proof of income and information on each student. Those interested in the program can call Essex Community Services 519-776-4231 to register, while supplies lasts.

  During the event, staff and volunteers with Essex Community Services organization, which is housed at the plaza, shared how anyone interested can volunteer with the organization. The Snow Patrol Program, for example, links individuals to neighbours who need their driveways and sidewalks cleared of snow and ice during the winter months.