Media Food Drive – Every year, as the Holiday Season approaches, members of the media join forces to help thousands of people in need. Along with an army of volunteers, they become the personification of solidarity. In November, Moisson Montreal’s Hunger Count revealed that although, Montreal’s economic situation is very strong, close to 70,000 people required more than 550,000 food assistance requests. With this in mind the Media Food Drive organized an awareness day with their spokespersons Melissa Bedard, Alexandre Champagne, Jean-Philippe Dion, Stephane Fallu, Patrice Godin, Danièle Henkel, Bianca Longpre, Ariane Moffatt and Patricia Paquin. Beneficiaries were also invited, as well as University of Montreal researchers, partners and community organizations for an open discussion on poverty, hunger and its effects on people’s health and stress levels.
Emotions were flying high as people started sharing their stories. Comedian Stephane Fallu thought he had been invited to soften the vibe with his usual sense of humor. He confided he had to steal food when he was 5 years old so that his family could eat. “For a long time I was ashamed of where I came from, said Fallu. I’m not ashamed anymore. Can’t we just all get together and feed everyone. It’s basic, we’re in Quebec!” The workshop set the tone for what would be a very touching, respectful and positive fundraising campaign.
On the way to a new record?
On December 5th, hundreds of volunteers woke up at the crack of dawn under a beautiful light snow on what was going to be a very successful collect. The Guignolee announced that $ 2.8 million were raised in Quebec, an increase of $ 300,000 compared to the same time in 2018! But it’s not over! Donations both in cash and non-perishable food, will be accepted until December 24 at branches affiliated with the Jean Coutu network, in the Provigo and MAXI stores as well as in the offices of Via Capitale. Donations can also be done at guignolee.ca or by texting FILL to 20222.
Your donations of cash and non-perishable food enable thousands of Quebecers and their families to enjoy the Holiday period with dignity. Your contribution makes a difference. Please give if you can!
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