GTA Construction Report staff writer
The Hamilton Halton (HHCA) and Niagara Construction Associations (NCA) have supported local food banks since 2008 through a friendly holiday season competition.
This year, the associations donated 1,489 lbs of food and more than $8,775 in cash. These figures are up considerably from last year.
Karen Sheldrick, the NCA’s general manager and chief operating officer, says she cannot account for the increase in competition this year beyond “the incredible generosity of the members.” The NCA generally “wins” the competition, which has achieved increasing results despite reports elsewhere of food drives with less success.
“We didn’t change anything, didn’t market it differently,” Sheldrick said. “Members just gave.”
Donations are received primarily from members who drop off items during the annual Christmas luncheon, with support from people in neighboring offices.
“People borrow bins from us and then we either pick them up or they bring them to our luncheon. We have some internal competitions going on as well between different committees and board members,” Sheldrick says.
The initiative supports Community Care of St. Catharines and Thorold. “During the holiday season they contribute to the needs of the entire Niagara region so the funds and food we raise benefits the greater area and we like that,” she said.
Special guests at this year’s luncheon included Alex Carrick, chief economist with Reed Construction Data and Nancy McIntosh from Community Care.
“This event really brings our members together in a worthwhile way. The work of Community Care is so important and they are so appreciative and grateful for your support, it is certainly something we want to continue.”
