Baie-D’Urfé Scouts

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Baie-D’Urfé Scouts marked a significant milestone by celebrating 35 years with their respected Food Drive, an event that has become a beloved community tradition. The event was a bustling affair, with the main room of the Red Barn opening its hangar doors to accommodate cars pulling up around the U-shaped driveway. Scouts eagerly collected donations, which were sorted by fellow Scouts.

In conjunction with the Food Drive, the Baie-D’Urfé Citizens Association hosted a Toy Drive, inviting residents to bring new, unwrapped toys or gift cards. Residents of all ages were welcomed by Santa at the Red Barn to capture a holiday photo as they dropped off non-perishable items.

Despite the chill in the air, the spirit of community warmth was palpable. Attendees enjoyed refreshments and festive Christmas music as they contributed non-perishable food items, baby food, and personal care products.The donations benefited the West Island Assistance Fund (FDOI), ensuring that those in need received extra support during the holidays.

The food drive brought together about five dozen volunteers who contributed to the Scouts’ mission of providing food and essentials to families in need across the West Island for the holiday season.

Baie-D’Urfé Mayor Heidi Ektvedt spoke with The Suburban about the event, emphasizing the deep-rooted traditions of the town. “Tradition is part and parcel of life in our lovely little town, and I am so proud to see the community rally in support of the 35th year of the Baie-D’Urfé Scouts with the food drive.”

The West Island Assistance Fund, along with many local food banks, are seeing overwhelming increases in demand. “Let’s continue to give what we can in support of those who need an extra hand,” Ektvedt encourages.

In an interview with The Suburban, 11-year-old Sophie Vermeulen said “We’re doing a drive for people that are less fortunate. Helping people makes me feel good.” Her enthusiasm was shared by fellow Scout, 10-year-old Myles Bowie, who told The Suburban “I feel good that they can eat because they might be really hungry. It (the proceeds from the food drive) helps people survive when they are hungry.”

Cub Scout leader Greg Vermeulen highlighted the importance of community engagement and education. “We are very excited and honoured to participate for the fifth year of this food drive while celebrating our 35 years. It’s always nice to get out of our regular meeting place environment. We want to teach them (the Scouts) starting at such a young age, and it’s great for us as adults too to participate,” he told The Suburban. “Some kids don’t appreciate that it’s hard for other families — it’s a good opportunity to discuss other people’s challenges and teach them how a community can come together to make things easier for people in need.” n