In the latest part of its $1 million Be A light: Beating COVID-19 Together campaign, Bruce Power is making a $350,000 contribution in grocery gift cards to schools, county housing services, long-term care homes and women’s shelters. It’s also planning to bring some Christmas cheer to the community.
Bruce Power’s President and CEO Mike Rencheck says, “The community heroes working in health care, long-term care, and community support organizations have worked tirelessly to assist those in need during the pandemic. We want to thank these many individuals for their commitment to their community, and also lend a helping hand to children and families in need.”
A release says the $350,000 will be distributed across Bruce, Grey and Huron counties in the following ways:
Schools, county housing services, and women’s shelters will distribute 3,000 grocery store gift cards to help those in need.
Bruce Power says school breakfast programs are experiencing increased usage and costs due to in-school changes because of COVID-19 protocols. The nuclear company says local programs will receive more than $100,000 so they can continue their breakfast programs.
According to Bruce Power, Long-term care facilities will receive holiday treats for residents and staff. Bruce Power notes, “Understanding not all residents will be able to enjoy the treats, Christmas ornaments will also be sent to each facility.”
Meanwhile, each county will receive a $5,000 contribution to their locally run toy drives.
Bruce Power says it has also launched an online fundraiser with the United Way of Bruce Grey to collect cash donations in place of Bruce Power’s annual on-site toy drive. They say it has raised $27,000 for nine local toy drives and hamper programs.
In addition, Bruce Power says new winter coats will be donated to the United Way of Bruce Grey winter coat program and the Huron-Perth Children’s Aid Society, for a total cost of $10,000.
The company also says, “As a token of thanks, local hospitals, COVID-19 assessment centres, and health unit offices will receive a box of chocolates from Mill Creek Chocolates.” Mill Creek Chocolates is a local chocolatier with locations in Owen Sound, Port Elgin and Kincardine.
United Way of Bruce Grey Executive Director Francesca Dobbyn says,”COVID-19 has put a strain on many families, workers, and organizations across Grey and Bruce counties.” She adds,”The need in our community is even greater this year, and we thank Bruce Power for once again stepping up to assist families, seniors, frontline workers, and hungry schoolchildren this holiday season. Thousands of people will have happier and healthier holidays thanks to Bruce Power’s outreach efforts.”
Bruce Power’s Be a Light: Beating COVID-19 Together is a five point campaign focused on supporting public awareness, providing protection, buying local, promoting mental and physical health, and lending a helping hand.
