Westerner Days has another record on the books.
This time, however, numerous local charities benefited from nearly $36,000 that was raised from 17 off-site events scheduled between July 18 to 22.
Red Deer businesses came together with Westerner Park to provide 18 local charities with the proceeds made from events such as pancake breakfasts’ and barbecues. The off-site events raised a total of $35,834.18.
Among the beneficiaries was the Red Deer Food Bank Society. Bower Place Shopping Centre’s pancake breakfast raised approximately $5,900 for the organization.
Alice Kolisnyk, deputy director at the Red Deer Food Bank Society, says the funds are needed this time of year.
“It’s a big help because between the summer months the donations are not as plentiful as they are at Christmas time,” she said.
The funds will be used to pay utility bills and to purchase perishable food items that cannot be donated.
“It will really help with the day-to-day things,” Kolisnyk said.
Red Deer’s Golden Circle received $7,122 after Mooney Insurance hosted an off-site pancake breakfast. The organization provides senior’s outreach services, resources and activities.
The funds will go towards the Golden Circle’s programming, said executive director Monica Morrison.
“Every penny counts,” she said.
“With the community jumping in and supporting us in this fashion, it helps us maintain programs at the circle.”
Westerner Days also broke an attendance record this year, with over 100,000 visitors.
jjones@www.reddeeradvocate.com