Independent local grocer Vince’s and its vendors and customers have raised $28,869 for Community & Home Assistance to Seniors (CHATS) through the annual community product initiative.
“CHATS was thrilled to have been selected as the Vince’s community product initiative recipient for 2023,” said CHATS CEO Christina Bisanz in a news release. “The past few years have been particularly difficult for many older adults in our community. While the pandemic escalated social isolation, the current economic challenges have put unprecedented pressure on food and housing security for our regions’ most vulnerable seniors and their family caregivers.”
Organizations like CHATS have been stretched, with increased demands for services and support, both directly and from their partners in health and social care, she said.
“We are grateful that Vince’s has recognized the importance of investing and contributing to CHATS’ crucial services that enable older adults to live independently and safely in their own homes and communities,” she added. “The funding we received from this program will ensure that no senior gets left behind.”
Working with participating vendors, Vince’s identifies a variety of items — typically staples — and then sets aside 15 per cent of sales of these products at all four of its locations, including Newmarket, each year.
“We are pleased to support the vital work being done by CHATS, and to play a role in making life a little easier for the older adults who rely on their services,” said Vince’s president Giancarlo Trimarchi. “This has been a great partnership, and we are pleased that CHATS has been so hands-on in working with us on this campaign. I’m also proud to announce that we have raised approximately $150,000 since launching the initiative in 2018. And we look forward to raising significant funds in 2024.”
“After a year of partnering with CHATS, I am truly impressed by the organization and the opportunities and programs they provide to seniors in our communities,” said Vince’s community ambassador Maria Ciarlandini. “It has been an absolute pleasure working alongside the CHATS team.”
For 2024, the recipient for Vince’s community product initiative is Toonies for Tummies, a Grocery Foundation initiative that directly benefits nutrition programs in the vicinity of participating stores. These programs are increasingly vital to the one in three children at risk of going to school on an empty stomach.
“Like many of the programs Vince’s supports, Toonies for Tummies is a game changer, making communities better by filling hungry tummies at school,” said Shaun McKenna, the Grocery Foundation’s executive director.
“What also makes this program unique is that every toonie will remain in the local community. We’re indebted to the wonderful team members at Vince’s, the company’s leadership, who are wholeheartedly committed to the communities where they operate, and, of course, the brands and tremendous guests. We each play a role in nourishing neighbourhoods, and this campaign will go a long way in doing just that,” added McKenna.
