The Humboldt Good Neighbour Store is celebrating another successful year of giving back to the community. The store, now in its 32nd year of operation, distributed a total of $463,000 to 61 local organizations in 2024, bringing its total donations since its inception to an impressive $5 million. This accomplishment is a reflection of the continued dedication of the store’s volunteers, community donors, and supporters.
Chairperson Lisa Owen spoke about the significance of this milestone and the ongoing support of both the community and volunteers. "The volunteers are our heart and soul. We wouldn’t exist without them," Owen said, emphasizing the crucial role that volunteers play in the store’s operations. "They all come in and do their jobs. We have on average around 140 people who come in five days a week and ensure that the shelves are stocked and everything’s neat and tidy and organized."
The store's ability to distribute such a large sum of money to local organizations is made possible by the generosity of the community. Donations have allowed the store to keep its shelves full, and in turn, make substantial contributions to organizations throughout the area.
The Good Neighbour Store’s donations have supported a wide range of local initiatives, with a special focus on programs that benefit youth and seniors. "It gives you goosebumps when you hear of all the wonderful organizations who have received funding from the Good Neighbour Store and all the good that they're doing in our community, especially for our youth and our seniors," Owen added, reflecting on the positive impact the store has had on those in need.
Inside of the store, there have been several upgrades made to the facility that have benefitted both the volunteers and customers.
As the year draws to a close, the Humboldt Good Neighbour Store remains a vital resource in the community, thanks to the unwavering dedication of its volunteers and the continued generosity of local supporters. With the store's legacy of giving back continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of many in the Humboldt area.