A unique three-decade-old tradition of crafting nutty handmade desserts has evolved into a successful annual fundraising opportunity for a local business.
W.W. Smith Insurance recently raised an impressive $9,490 for the Salvation Army through their second nut ring fundraiser, marking a significant leap from the inaugural event.
Managing Partner Chad Parenteau said the company's motivation is a passion for the local organization.
“The fundraiser started last year on our 110th anniversary,” he said. “We wanted to do something that gave back to the community, and the Salvation Army was one that we wanted to work with.”
The funds generated directly benefit the free Wednesday Night Community Meal.
Arlene McKenzie, who organizes the weekly dinners, said the funds help them continue to provide not only free homecooked food but also human connection to residents in the city.
“It is a full course meal with salads, sides, that often our guests are not able to provide themselves,” she said. "Thing that I see most at a Wednesday night meal...we open the doors at 5 p.m. and we serve dinner at 5:30 p.m., and the whole time it's just a sense of community. It fills me up."
Ten businesses each donated $250 for the golden nut ring, which W.W. Smith matched, and 32 others also pitched in.
The funds will cover the cost of 19 free hot dinners for those in Swift Current who need it, as each community meal costs the Salvation Army $500.
“I want to express gratitude for what Chad and W.W. Smith did,” McKenzie added. “The whole team got involved. Just knowing that they were here, making them... it was a really, really good promotion and we're extremely grateful.”
Sat, May 18, 1:00 PM
Full-time, Hourly, Part-time, Permanent, Hospitality
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