The Chatham Goodfellows 64th annual street sales campaign has concluded for another year and the board of directors is pleased with the great turnout of volunteers, and the generous citizens of Chatham-Kent.
Chatham-Kent residents donated over $30,500 in cash, which is approximately $4,000 less than 2017. “The Chatham Goodfellows Board of Directors are appreciative of the continued support and generosity of the volunteers, Chatham-Kent residents, media and businesses to ensure ‘No Child
Without a Christmas,’” Tim Mifflin, Chatham Goodfellows Director said in a media release. “Our motto is simple – No Child Without a Christmas. While our Code is much longer, one of the key statements in the Code says it all: It’s understanding a neighbour’s plight, and caring enough to do what’s right.”
Mifflin also reported that each year, Giant Tiger – Thames Lea Plaza staff collect money for their “Someone’s Angel This Christmas” event.
In 2016 the staff collected a total of $3,000 for Chatham Goodfellows “No Child With a Christmas” campaign.
“Last year, the staff collected almost $10,000. This year, over $16,000 was collected,” Mifflin said. “Giant Tiger and staff were the Chatham Goodfellows 2018 President Award recipient. They were recognized for their long-term support for Chatham Goodfellows.”
He added in 2017 Giant Tiger’s manager, Mark Lush, and his staff made a monumental commitment to Chatham Goodfellows to support the Chatham Goodfellows “Boot Program” which had been dormant since 2013. Last year the soft re-introduction of the program was a success.
This year, Mifflin said the Chatham Goodfellows are pleased to announce that the “Boot Program” is continuing with a significant enhancement. This year each child will receive a Giant Tiger boot and shoe certificate. The money collected during the “Someone’s Angel This Christmas” event, and the $12,000 donation from the 100 Plus Women Who Care will be used for the Chatham Goodfellows “Boot and Shoe Program.”
“Chatham Goodfellows is grateful to have wonderful partnerships in order to help us achieve our simple motto of No Child Without a Christmas,” Mifflin said.