In the true spirit of community, the Lakelands Association of REALTORS® and its members proudly announce its charitable contributions to shelter-based charities and food banks across the region this holiday season. As part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to making a positive impact of the lives of those in need, The Lakelands has stepped up its philanthropic effort to ensure that everyone can experience the warmth and joy of the festive season.
With the holiday season upon us, The Lakelands recognized the increased challenges faced by many individuals and families, particularly those who rely on shelters and food banks for essential support this time of year. In response to this The Lakelands, on behalf of its REALTOR® members have taken strategic and proactive measures to contribute to the wellbeing of the community, by providing financial support of almost $106,000 throughout the region.
Through initiatives such as it’s annual Every REALTOR® campaign, where REALTOR® members contribute monthly, the Lakelands Annual Turkey Challenge and Tragic Relief fund, the Lakelands made a significant contribution to the following organizations:
| Salvation Army | Bracebridge |
| Manna Food Bank | Bracebridge (also serves Port Carling) |
| Hospice Georgian Triangle | Collingwood |
| St. Vincent De Paul | Collingwood |
| Elmvale Food Bank | Elmvale |
| Georgian Bay Food Network | Georgian Bay (also serves Midland and surrounding area) |
| Gravenhurst Against Poverty | Gravenhurst |
| Haliburton 4C’s Food Bank | Haliburton |
| Places for People | Haliburton |
| The Table Food Bank | Huntsville (also serves Muskoka) |
| Dwight and Baysville Winter Pantry | Lake of Bays |
| Meaford Foodbank | Meaford |
| Georgian Bay Food Network | Midland |
| St. Vincent De Paul | Midland |
| Muskoka Women’s Advocacy Group | Muskoka |
| The Lighthouse | Orillia |
| The Sharing Place | Orillia |
| Argyle & District Food Bank | Parry Sound |
| Harvest Share Community Food Program | Parry Sound (also serves MacTier, Magnetawan) |
| St. Vincent De Paul | Penetang |
| United Church Food Drive | Severn (also serves Coldwater, Port Severn, Honey Harbour ) |
| Sunridge Food Bank Christmas Cheer | Sunridge (also serves Strong and Joly) |
| Beaver Valley Outreach | Thornbury (also serves Meaford) |
| St. Vincent De Paul | Victoria Harbour |
| St. Vincent De Paul | Wasaga Beach |
| Wasaga Beach Ministerial Food Bank | Wasaga Beach |
Lakelands President Matthew Lidbetter, expressed the organization’s dedication to giving back stating, “At the Lakelands, we believe in the power of local community and the importance of supporting one another, especially during the holiday season. This year, we’re pleased to extend our helping hand to those facing hardship by contributing almost $106,000 to shelter-base charities and food banks. We hope these efforts bring comfort, and a sense of community to those in need.”
The donations have been distributed among various local organizations dedicated to providing shelter, food and assistance to individuals and families experiencing homelessness or food insecurity. The donations will help these organizations meet the increased demand for their services during the winter months.
The Lakelands Association of REALTORS® represents more than 1,500 REALTORS®. There are several major geographical areas within the Association’s boundaries, including parts of Severn and Georgian Bay Townships; Wasaga Beach, Clearview Township, Collingwood, The Blue Mountains, and portions of the Municipality of Meaford, Grey Highlands. As well as the Towns of Midland and Penetanguishene, the Townships of Tay, and Tiny. In the heart of Canada’s Cottage Country; Parry Sound, Muskoka, Haliburton, Orillia, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Muskoka Lakes, Huntsville, and Lake of Bays. Most within our geographical area are located less than a two-hour drive north of Toronto. Each offers a unique blend of properties ranging from residential homes to smaller towns and the rural areas in between, as well as a mix of waterfront homes/cottages on the many rivers and lakes that range from the smaller entry-level properties to the prestigious.
