Deb – Huron County Foodbank Distribution Centre

Deb's day at the Huron County Foodbank Distribution Centre

A Heart Full of Gratitude – Deb’s Day at the Huron County Foodbank Distribution Centre (the DC)

The mission of “the DC” is “To provide food security for all people by supporting the food banks and aid agencies in Huron County and area”. 

They source and supply 36 Food Banks and Aid Agencies in Huron and Perth Counties along with operating a Mobile Food Bank program in 6 Huron County villages. They also deliver school snacks to numerous schools in Huron & Perth counties.  More and more people continue to use the foodbank than ever before.  The “DC” also utilizes Food Education as an ally to eliminate hunger.

Deb was happy to give her donation to the DC and to spend the day volunteering as a way to give back. She looks forward to volunteering here when she is retired.

The warehouse and office space was a flurry of activity that morning.  Volunteers unpacked boxes of canned goods, sorting and packing as they go. They were busy preparing bags of food for the Mobile Food Bank. Everyone, from young adults to retirees, share a sense of purpose.

Deb’s task this day was to help three other volunteers with the massive amount of Christmas mailings, all personally signed by the Executive Director Mary Ellen Zielmann, to thank all the donors that give so much during the year.

Many thanks to Mary Ellen for allowing Deb to be part of something so vital to our community, even just for the day.

Alisha – Ramoth Life Centre

Alisha's Day at Ramoth Life Centre

Ramoth Life Centre is a haven for pregnant women and young mothers that have had a difficult past and are needing a safe place to live.  They provide a safe and supportive environment where these women can heal, grow and learn practical life skills.

Alisha had the opportunity to participate in a spa day for the mothers. She gave manicures and pedicures while others did their hair and makeup. Alisha expressed how amazing it was to serve and be a part of showing each of the mother’s that they are loved, valued and beautiful. 

In addition to the spa day, Ramoth Life Centre offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. The Cuddle Program allows volunteers to provide much-needed respite to mothers by cuddling their babies. Other opportunities include practical workshops teaching the women cooking, sewing, self care ect.  More information can be found on their website here https://www.ramoth.ca/.

Dave – VON Sakura House

Dave's Day at VON Sakura House

Dave spent his volunteer day at VON’s Sakura House Hospice in Woodstock. He met with Brittany Bratt and her team, as well as the volunteers at the house.

Dave volunteered his time on their AGM and Thank you Day for regular volunteers. He spent his day cleaning and setting up the ballroom in the basement of the house for the events, and cleaning up and putting away everything at the end. By assisting, Dave was able to give the regular volunteers time to enjoy the Thank you.

Dave met with multiple volunteers, employees and board members to learn what the home did for its patients and guests.

Our donation will be used to assist with the purchase of supplies, ingredients and equipment for the volunteers in the Kitchen Group to prepare snacks & meals for the guests and patients at the home.


The kitchen has a “Wish Tree” where they hang cards with items needed and desired for the kitchen such as baking supplies, snack foods, nuts, coffee & tea, travel size toiletries such as mouthwash & toothpaste for those that left home without them, etc.

Multiple volunteers are always need for things such as yard care, greeting staff, patient companions, as well as kitchen help.

"Plain amazing the heart & empathy these people have"
Dave Elliot

Bryden – BFM Foundation Canada

Bryden's Day at Mission Thrift Store - London

 Mission Thrift Store exists to serve the communities where the stores are located, with affordable products, financial assistance and hope.

Bryden spent September 26, his volunteer day, with Mission Thrift Store. He spent his day receiving shipments, processing them, testing hardware items and preparing them to be placed on the salesfloor.

Bryden selected the organization because it aligns with his values, and those of Tradition Mutual Insurance. He also wanted to give back to his local community.