Left to right – Karrie Lepoudre, Dianne Barnes, June McDonald, Dennis Chippa, Mary Norton, Sylvie Vannier, Jean Grace, Ariane Savard, Margaret Payne, Anne Dalgliesh, Yvonne Buckner
The inaugural “Empire Warms Hearts” event raised $4,022 for The North Bay Warming Centre.
The largest component of the event was a chili-lunch fundraiser, held in the Empress Ballroom.
For a minimum $5 donation, diners enjoyed a bowl of chili, a bun, cookie and beverage.
Many visitors gave more than the minimum, in one case $100.
That evening residents had a second chance to contribute to the cause, with a “Blast from the Past” concert featuring tribute artist Gavan Rousseau.
Empire General Manager Ariane Savard is extremely pleased. “We broke our internal goal of $2,500 and couldn’t be happier! We also had many residents and visitors who dropped off dozens of blankets, gloves, socks and other items that will go to good use at the centre.”
Empire Outreach Manager Mike Anthony adds,”This sort of city-wide event truly lets the residents interact with the rest of the community, and help a very worthwhile cause.
A total of 301 people dropped by for the lunch event, while 86 pre-orders were placed for pick up.
