On a dreary September 12, while rain drizzled over Vermilion, the spirit of community shone brightly as Cornerstone Co-op Liquor team of employees held its annual fundraising BBQ. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., hotdogs, hamburgers, and cheeseburgers sizzled on the grill as staff served them up to eager patrons, all in support of the Vermilion Elementary School (VES) Hot Lunch Program.
Despite the less-than-ideal weather, the turnout was impressive. Bobbi-Jo Sweeney, manager of Cornerstone Co-op Liquor, shared her gratitude: “We want to extend a big thank you to everyone who braved the rain to support our BBQ. We chose to back the Hot Lunch Program because we believe every child should have the chance to enjoy a nutritious meal during their school day.”
This marks the third year Cornerstone Co-op Liquor has hosted a fundraiser for a local cause, and Sweeney, with a smile, pointed out, “In those three years, we’ve only had nice weather once.”
The VES Hot Lunch Program, a registered charity since its inception in October 1999, is dedicated to ensuring all students have access to nutritious food. Operating on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, the program offers a balanced meal including a main course, vegetables, salad, yogurt, or fruit, with portion sizes guided by the Canada Food Guide. Each meal costs $5, but the program remains accessible regardless of a family’s financial situation.
Thanks to the generosity of the community, the fundraiser raised $355—funds that will directly contribute to feeding Vermilion’s students. In a world where children’s success in school is often linked to their nutrition, this fundraiser truly hit home, providing support where it’s needed most.
For those who may have missed the event, the VES Hot Lunch Program welcomes additional donations year-round to ensure no child goes hungry.
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