A Squamish, B.C., grocery store remained closed on Christmas Day, but continued to support the community. Devon Crane, the store manager at Stong’s Market, expressed their commitment to ensuring the community’s needs were met during the closure. Following the Christmas Eve closure, the store’s staff placed essential cooking items and food outside for people to take at no cost since most places were closed on Christmas Day.
The initiative received positive responses as community members not only availed of the items but also showed generosity by donating hundreds of dollars. The items included essentials like turkey bags, gravy, and poultry seasoning. Additionally, a QR code was displayed on the table, prompting people to consider donating to Squamish Helping Hands Society, a local organization supporting homeless individuals, in exchange for taking an item.
While eight people were recorded scanning the QR code, the total amount of donations could not be tracked. Lori Pyne, the executive director at Squamish Helping Hands, expressed surprise and gratitude for the unexpected gesture. The organization received $353 in donations between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, emphasizing the importance of catering to diverse needs within the community.
Recognizing the significance of supporting one another during the holiday season, both Crane and Pyne highlighted the importance of inclusivity and generosity. The grocery store staff were pleased to learn about the substantial funds raised for the charity, showcasing the community’s unity and compassion.
