By Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The dedicated organizing committee behind the 20th annual ‘Festival of Giving’ recently convened to allocate donations to local organizations, marking a significant milestone for this beloved community event.
With immense pride and gratitude, the ‘Festival of Giving’ announced a remarkable donation total of $47,500, a testament to the unwavering support from sponsors, volunteers, and enthusiastic participants.
After three challenging years of pandemic-induced hiatus, the 2023 ‘Festival of Giving’ (FoG) returned triumphantly on June 3, 2023, with a nostalgic “Retro Rewind!” theme. This year, the event found a new home at the Sons of Kent Brewing Company, located at 27 Adelaide St S, Chatham.
Out of the generous sum raised, $35,000 has been allocated to benefit the Chatham-Kent Youth Wellness Hub Ontario (YWHO), formerly ACCESS Open Minds. YWHO offers a unique, walk-in, one-stop destination for youth aged 12-25 to access vital mental health support, substance use care, primary care, housing assistance, and various community and social services. All services, programs, and care provided are free and conveniently located under one roof. The Chatham-Kent Youth Wellness Hub is situated in downtown Chatham at 140 King Street West.
The Thamesville Sertoma Club, a steadfast supporter of the ‘Festival of Giving,’ was granted $10,000 to further their valuable community work. Additionally, the committee allocated $2,500 to ‘Santa for Seniors’ (www.santaforseniors.ca) to aid in their mission.
The FoG attendees, affectionately known as “Foggers,” revelled in a day of delectable food, refreshing drinks, and captivating local entertainment. The event featured live and silent auctions, adding excitement and further community engagement.
Expressing their heartfelt gratitude, the ‘Festival of Giving’ chairs extended their appreciation to local sponsors who enthusiastically embraced the rejuvenated FoG.
