The Township of Georgian Bay is proud to announce the successful conclusion of the 2025 Sleighing Hunger campaign, marking the most impactful season in the initiative’s history and a powerful show of community care and generosity.
This year’s campaign was anchored by an extraordinary commitment from the MacMillan Family, the program’s Matching Donor Family, who first stepped forward three years ago with a vision rooted in food security and community wellbeing. With a deep love for Georgian Bay, Mr. MacMillan approached Trisha Walton, Communications and Sustainability Officer, with an idea to support the Port Severn/Honey Harbour Food Bank and inspire others to give.
In 2025, the MacMillan Family raised the bar again, challenging the community to raise $25,000 with a promise to match every dollar.
Township staff responded with energy and creativity, developing new campaign visuals, launching a donation thermometer to show real-time impact, and engaging community groups and partners to help spread the word. Together with the Baxter Ward Lions, the Southeast Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce (SEGBAY), and the Georgian Bay Historical Society, the community didn’t just meet the goal, it surpassed it.
By the end of the campaign, Sleighing Hunger raised $28,000, which was generously matched by the MacMillan Family, bringing the total impact to $56,000 in direct support for our local food bank.
“Our family loves Georgian Bay, and it is wonderful to see the community coming together to support the people who live here,” shares the MacMillan Family.
Mayor Peter Koetsier praised the campaign’s success and the community spirit behind it:
“Sleighing Hunger shows what is possible when compassion, leadership, and community partnerships come together. The generosity of the MacMillan Family and the incredible response from residents and local organizations demonstrate the very best of Georgian Bay. This campaign directly supports our neighbours and strengthens the fabric of our community.”
The need for food bank services in the area continues to grow. Over the past three years, usage has nearly tripled, with the food bank now providing essential groceries and necessities to more than 40 households every month. The success of this campaign will allow us to provide services to more households in our area facing food insecurity.
Township staff are looking ahead to hiring a dedicated support staff member to assist with the day-to-day operations. This will help restore bi-weekly distribution and allow for more consistent, responsive support for residents facing food insecurity. This position was approved through the 2026 Annual Budget.
The Township of Georgian Bay extends its sincere gratitude to the MacMillan Family, campaign partners, donors, volunteers, and everyone who participated in Sleighing Hunger. Together, this community has once again proven that when neighbours lift one another up, the impact is lasting and meaningful.
For more information about the Port Severn/Honey Harbour Food Bank or future community initiatives, please visit the Township website, www.gbtownship.ca or connect with Trisha Walton, Communications and Sustainability Officer at twalton@gbtownship.ca.
