Portage la Prairie residents gathered on Friday, July 18, for a community barbecue at Don’s Direct Deals, raising funds in support of Central Plains Cancer Service (CPCS).
The event drew a steady and enthusiastic crowd of about 125 people, raising just over $2,000.
The barbecue featured food prepared by ARC Industries, while representatives from Central Plains Cancer Services organized prize draws. Volunteers also distributed beam bracelets designed to remind people to protect themselves from ultraviolet rays.
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Owner Don Hales explains that the event is a personal way for him to give back to CPCS, a cause that has touched many in the community.
“It’s my way of giving back to Central Plains Cancer Services because I experienced what they do for the community personally,” he notes. “It’s just my way of giving back because as we all know, it’s not just family. Every time you turn around, someone is either passing away with cancer or diagnosed with cancer."
Seeing the turnout and community support makes the event especially rewarding.
“It just makes me feel very happy for the support for Central Plains Cancer Services and it makes it very worthwhile to put this day on and have the BBQ,” Hales adds.
While this is the second Fight Cancer Friday barbecue hosted by Hales, he says plans for future events will depend on how this one goes.
“I know there’s lots going on in the community today, so I’m very happy with how many are here,” he says. “We’ll look down the road and see if there’s maybe closer to fall a day that there’s not a lot going on and put on another one so we can have another huge crowd.”
The previous barbeque held on June 6 attracted more than 160 people, raising over $2,800.
Before closing, Hales thanks everyone for their continued support.
“Thank you very much for the huge support for Central Plains Cancer Services,” he remarks.
The Fight Cancer Friday barbecue series highlights the generosity and community spirit in Portage la Prairie, raising awareness and funds to support people affected by cancer in the region.
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