On Thursday, December 19, 2024, the Verdun-Nun’s Island community once again demonstrated its exceptional generosity and solidarity, providing much-needed relief for many vulnerable families. Thanks to the efforts of our team at Toujours ensemble, supported by 55 dedicated volunteers and invaluable partners, 325 households received food baskets filled with fresh produce, canned goods, and other essentials—enough to last a week. In total, 1143 individuals, including 511 children and 632 adults, benefited from this wave of generosity.
Acts That Leave a Lasting Impact
Alejandra Zaga Mendez, Member of the National Assembly for Verdun, joined our volunteers during the initiative, presenting a generous $10,000 donation to support our fight against food insecurity through our school lunch program.
“Solidarity is the foundation of our community. Thank you to Toujours ensemble for working tirelessly to ensure no one is left behind this holiday season. This donation is a spark for a more equitable future,” she said.
The dedicated efforts of our team and partners to meet the growing demand for assistance have been deeply appreciated by the Verdun-Nun’s Island community. One recipient shared their heartfelt gratitude: “It’s heartwarming and comforting to see our community come together for the holidays. This basket isn’t just food; it’s proof that we’re not alone. It gives me hope.”
A Collective Effort
“More than half of the households we support are struggling with the rising cost of living and the absence of a reliable safety net. This initiative aims to address urgent needs while working toward sustainable solutions to food insecurity,” said Andrew Marchand, Family Support Coordinator for Toujours ensemble.
The assistance provided reached households of various sizes, including 74 families from Nun’s Island, who accounted for 22% of the distributions. “We also help individuals living alone with well-stocked grocery bags, offering them comfort and a message of community solidarity during these tough times,” added Andrew.
In addition to the food baskets, 20 gift cards provided by The Gazette extended the impact of this solidarity effort even further.
Essential Local Partners
The achievements of this holiday campaign would not have been possible without the invaluable support of dedicated partners like the Henrichon-Goulet Foundation, the Renaud family, and the broader Montreal community.
We are also grateful to the following businesses and organizations:
- Food Donations: Alimentation Dynamic, Ambiance (Groupe Maurice residence, Nun’s Island), BCI Foods, Coke Canada, Courchesne Larose, IGA Gérard Champagne Ltée, Les Producteurs de Lait du Québec, Marché Bonanza Lalumière, Marché Tondreau, Maxi #7557, Moisson Montréal, Olymel, Réchaud-Bus, Saint-Hubert Express Verdun, Saputo
- Food Drives: CPE Picotine, École Montessori de Montréal, TC Transcontinental
- Service Donations: Loue-Froid, Multiservice Diamond, Summum Réfrigération
In addition, Bell contributed over 300 backpacks filled with school supplies, supporting young people’s perseverance during the holiday season.
A Call for Generosity
It’s not too late to donate to support our mission and receive a tax receipt. Your contribution can make a difference in sustaining vital programs like our school lunch service. Donations can be made anytime via our online platform:
👉 Make a Donation
A Holiday Break
The Toujours ensemble team will take a well-deserved break during the holidays, with offices closed from December 23 to January 3 inclusively. We promise to return in 2025 with renewed energy and determination.
Wishing you all joyful holidays filled with hope, sharing, and happiness!
