Spreading Cheer

Alycia Douglass

CORNWALL, Ontario – Five years ago, the Cornwall Community Cheer Committee began their mission of inspiring joy through acts of kindness.

Originally intending to combat holiday loneliness, the group’s kind gestures soon snowballed into a year-round compassion project. 

“Initially, we thought about what kinds of fundraisers we wanted to have, and what we were going to do with the funds once we received them,” said Cornwall Cheer’s Debbie Fortier. 

Community Cheer’s Danielle MacNeil said that while there are typically ample programs for children during the holidays, there was a noticeable gap for more isolated populations.

Asking the community to nominate people, the group received a huge response in their first year, creating over 30 baskets. 

“There were a lot of elderly people who were in need,” said MacNeil. “But following the Christmas Cheer, we really began to see that people could use the help year-round.”

With their mission remaining unchanged, they are set to host a fall craft and vendor sale on Oct. 14, with all money raised will be reinvested into the community. Set to take place at Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School, the event promises something for everyone. 

“We’ve got some fabulous vendors lined up,” said Fortier. “And we’re thrilled to offer another fun event in support of some great community projects.”

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