THUNDER BAY – The United Way of Thunder Bay is setting its sights high this Christmas season.
They are hoping to raise $60,000 in their Home for the Holidays campaign, with Memorial Home Hardware matching all donations up to $10,000.
“The United Way and Home Hardware are both celebrating 60 years, so they want to challenge all of us in our community to come together and raise $60,000,” said Albert Brule, chief executive officer of the United Way of Thunder Bay.
“We’ve been working together for a number of years now,” added Chris Sauer, who is the co-owner/dealer of Memorial Home Hardware with his wife Shannon.
“It started out as something that we did as we saw people in the community that were in need and wanted to do something about it. Throughout the years, it’s grown into where we are today.”
The campaign officially launched on Thursday morning and runs until Dec. 31.
The money that will be raised during the campaign will stay in Thunder Bay and be used to help support local food programs, children’s programs and mental health services.
“At this time of year, there’s a lot of people experiencing isolation, social isolation and challenges,” Brule said. “It’s really important that the services that they need are available when they need them.
“Those of us who have a home or have the opportunity to enjoy a Christmas meal with family and loved ones … we sometimes take for granted those comforts that we have.”
Donations can be made at Memorial Home Hardware towards the purchase of a Home for the Holidays bauble, which can be hung on their in-store Christmas tree. Each purchase will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the store through the end of the month.
An anonymous Secret Santa has also pledged to match an additional $20,000 to the fund.
Contributions to the campaign can also be made at the United Way of Thunder Bay’s website.
