Hamilton Community Rallies to Collect More Than 2,700 Pounds of Food at Winona Peach Festival

A decade-long partnership between The Salvation Army, the Winona Peach Festival, Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) and Eastgate Square continues to make a difference for local families facing food insecurity.

A trip to the Winona Peach Festival became an opportunity to give back this weekend, as festival-goers helped The Salvation Army collect 2,736 pounds of food and $982.45 in monetary donations for families in Hamilton.

The results represent an increase over last year, with 118 more pounds of food collected and $171.90 more in monetary donations.

For more than a decade, the Winona Peach Festival has partnered with The Salvation Army, HSR and Eastgate Square to make giving back part of the festival experience. From August 28–30, visitors travelling to the festival from Eastgate Square by HSR shuttle could drop off donations before continuing on to enjoy the festivities.

This year’s drive came at an especially important time for local families, with children heading back to school and household budgets under pressure. Donations such as cereal, oatmeal, granola bars, canned fruit and peanut butter can help families prepare breakfasts and pack snacks for the school day.

The Salvation Army Hamilton Community and Family Services supports approximately hundreds of families every month, providing food and practical assistance to people experiencing challenging circumstances.

The food drive was just one part of The Salvation Army’s presence at Eastgate Square. While waiting for the shuttle, families and festival-goers could stop by for games, giveaways and activities, creating an opportunity to connect with the organization and learn more about its work in the community.

“Each month, The Salvation Army Hamilton Community and Family Services supports approximately 500 families, providing food, practical assistance and hope to people facing challenging times,” said Cindy Taylor, Community Relations Coordinator.

The growing support year over year shows the impact of bringing local organizations, businesses and community members together around a common goal.

“It’s a simple way to enjoy the festival while helping make a difference in the Hamilton community.”

For the families who will benefit from these donations, the impact continues long after the last peach has been picked and the festival grounds have emptied. Food collected this weekend will help stock their shelves, fill lunch bags and put meals on tables for their children — reminding local families that their community is there for them when they need it most.

To learn how you can help, visit salvationarmy.ca, call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), or connect with The Salvation Army Hamilton Community and Family Services at 80 Bay Street North, Hamilton. 

By Claudia Nosseir