Another great Canada Day weekend is well behind us. There were wonderful events in many communities around the Owen Sound area all celebrating this great country that we live in. It is appropriate for us to celebrate because we do live in a wonderfully safe, resource-rich and beautiful country. Just last night, I was able to enjoy a free, Harbour Nights, music concert down at the visitor’s centre along with a large crowd of others who were enjoying the warm summer night. O Canada, indeed!

As we continue to enjoy this summer’s many festivals and other celebrations, I hope that we can remember those in our communities who find every day a challenge. There are those in our community who continue to struggle with poverty and the many problems associated with it. A significant number of our neighbours suffer from a scarcity of good food.

One of the strengths that I’ve seen in our community is its generosity. Through this generosity, the Owen Sound Hunger Relief Effort, or OSHaRE, is able to continue providing a nutritious meal each and every evening as well as a place to gather and enjoy the support of each other in difficult times. In 2018, OSHaRE provided more than 21,000 meals. OSHaRE will soon be moving to a new location that will allow us to provide even more support to those of our community who need it most and there is an opportunity for all of us to contribute towards this important work.

Poverty and hunger don’t take a vacation. As you make your plans for the summer, please remember those in our community that depend on your generosity.

Thom McDonough
Chair, Owen Sound Hunger Relief Effort (OSHaRE)