In small towns and rural communities we get to know our neighbours very well.  That should make us all more aware that some of us are lucky enough to experience better conditions than others.  Why not let the Christmas spirit inspire you to make a difference in your community?  It’s not too late to get involved with one or more of these amazing programs in Grey Highlands!

Come Dine With Me Community Dinner in Markdale

Markdale’s “Come Dine With Me ” Christmas Dinner provides food and fellowship for anyone in the general Grey Highlands area who will be alone on Christmas day.  All food and supplies are provided and/or prepared by volunteers.  The dinner is provided at no cost but donations in support of Chapman House Hospice of Owen Sound will be gratefully accepted.  If you would like to help out in some way, contact Lib Howell at 519-379-0672.

Flesherton Community Food Bank

The Flesherton and Community Food Bank provides boxes of food for local families in need and local food bank use has increased by more than 10% annually in recent years.  They are staffed entirely by local volunteers and do not receive any government funding so donations and volunteers are always welcomed!  If you’d like to get involved, click here to download a copy of the Flesherton and Community Food Bank brochure or contact Marion Doyle at 519-599-3576.

Flesherton Love Committee Hampers

The Flesherton Love Committee provides Christmas baskets to local families in need of some extra support during the holidays.  These baskets include a full turkey dinner, toys for children up to age 12 and gift cards for teens 13-18.  The Committee accepts donations of clothing, toys and food as well as financial contributions and they always welcome volunteers to help with organization, packing, gift wrapping and delivery.  For more information contact Joan McGee at 519-924-2936.

School Nutrition Programs

Local schools all have Nutrition Programs that could use some help too.  These programs are run exclusively by volunteers who strive to make fresh, healthy food available to every student each day so that those children who are truly in need are less likely to be singled out.  All food preparation, clean up and distribution is done by volunteers.  If you are able to donate food or kitchen items, make a financial contribution or volunteer your time (which is often the thing these programs need the most), please contact a school near you.

MacPhail Memorial School, Flesherton:  Ashley Davis (ashpatdavis@hotmail.com) or on facebook

Beavercrest Community School, Markdale:  Office Manager  519-986-2990

Osprey Central School, Maxwell:   Office Manager  519922-2341 x521

High Point Community School, Dundalk:  Office Manager  519-923-2336

Dundalk & Proton Community School, Dundalk:   Office Manager  519-923-2622