This is one of a series of articles, as part of the feature called "Helpers", which focuses on people and organizations that help make our community better.
This time we look at how shoppers at the Giant Tiger store on Lakeshore Drive are being given the chance to help the hungry.
Giant Tiger Lakeshore owner Sean Wilson says they're always looking at ways to connect with their community.
"When people shop at our store that's where we make our money, and we're grateful for that. North Bay's been very good to us, so usually, we're looking to connect with the needs of the community, and especially with organizations that we know are overwhelmed more than normal," he explains.
The latest effort was one that he came up with as the local rules of the pandemic changed - requiring face masks for people whenever they are out in North Bay.
"The $1 mask program was started to help customers who may have forgotten their face covering. We offer masks, and they can pay for them at the checkouts on their way out. All profit from the sale of the masks is being donated to the North Bay Food Bank and the work they are doing to assist our neighbours in need, especially during these difficult times," adds Wilson.
He was looking for a new project because of the impact COVID has had on some of their favourite annual fundraisers.
"Normally by now, we would have had on-site events for Ride for Dad, and the TP North Bay drive, as well as a booth at Ribfest. But with events either cancelled or moved online, we missed those. This was a way to keep contributing," he says.
While the project is just starting up, Wilson wanted to kick things off with a bang, so he put up the first $500 donation from his own pocket.
Giant Tiger is open seven days a week at 278 Lakeshore Drive.
