NEW GLASGOW, N.S. — Pictou County Helpers held its first formal fundraiser on Saturday, April 20 with a pancake breakfast at the community room of the Aberdeen Sobeys.
The organization, which was started in memory of Daniel Arsenault, helps meet private needs in the community through a public Facebook page. The way it works is that is if someone has a need they message one of the administrators privately. That need is then posted anonymously on the Facebook page and people message about whether or not they are able to help.
Ashley Bowden is one of the administrators of the page and said it’s been amazing to watch how quickly it’s grown during the last few months.
Bowden said she believes the confidentiality is a big key to the success.
“It’s amazing. It feels like Christmas bringing the needs to different families. It’s very fulfilling.”
She said the support from the community to meet the needs has been overwhelming.
“Everyone is very willing to help and very, very generous,” she said.
The organizers are currently in the process of having Pictou County Helpers registered as a nonprofit organization.
From there, Bowden said they hope it will continue to grow.
“We want to see a steady flow of volunteers and a steady flow of donations to keep it going and always help our community.”
More than $300 was raised at the breakfast on Saturday adding to the support the community has already show.
“We want to say a big thanks to our community,” Bowden said. “We’re very pleased with how generous everyone has been and how well it’s taken off.”
