Representatives from a number of local non-profit organizations were on hand to receive their share of $20,000 in Country Grocer gift cards on Friday, April 24. The cards were donated by the Garrett Paquette Fund. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

HUGE DONATION

Needy Nanaimo families land $20,000 in grocery gift cards

Apr 24, 2020 | 11:20 AM

NANAIMO — Families in need across the region will have a little easier time paying for household essentials following a sizeable donation.

Organizers of the Garrett Paquette Seafood Extravaganza were met with $10,000 in matching funds by Country Grocer to provide $20,000 in gift cards to Nanaimo area families.

The cards will be distributed through Haven Society, Nanaimo Food Share, Nanaimo Family Life Association and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Vancouver Island.

“Our group of organizers decided they wanted to do something immediate and very responsible,” Sarah Bramley, Seafood Extravaganza organizer told NanaimoNewsNOW.” We know (the organizations) have a direct demand for their services as well as families who are in need to provide food on their tables.”

Toni Wheeler, executive director of Haven Society, said the money can have sizable ripple effects when it comes to their clients.

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“Any pressure on the family would increase the incidence of intimate partner violence for our families,” Wheeler said. “The gift cards will help take away one small amount of pressure…and with that comes a decrease in the pressure the family itself is experiencing.”

The Garrett Paquette Fund was created following his passing in November 2011. Through its annual seafood extravaganza and other fundraising initiatives, the fund has raised over $500,000 for local causes.

“Our son Garrett would be very proud of us doing this kind of thing…that was his life was, to help people and that’s why we carried on,” Roger Paquette, Garrett’s dad said. “It’s really important to help the seniors and other families that are in need of financial assistance at this time, especially with the COVID-19 situation.”

alex.rawnsley@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @alexrawnsley