"Cochrane is the most generous community on the planet. And truly, at this time of year, it is on full display."
Mayor Jeff Genung has been a witness to countless acts of kindness over the past few weeks, each event highlighting the town's incredible support for one another.
"It's overwhelming at times," Genung said. "The generosity in this community is just unbelievable. I've been invited to a lot of events recently, year-end gatherings, Christmas dinners, volunteer thank-yous. Home Treasures, for example, announced they had given back almost $300,000 to the community this year. Amazing."
The Cochrane Food Bank is another vital organization that continues to work tirelessly, especially during the holidays, ensuring that no family goes hungry. The Share Your Christmas campaign has become a beacon of hope for families, making their holidays a bit brighter.
"The spirit of our community, the families that show up, it's pretty special. At the holiday train event, we saw around 2,000 people come out of nowhere, and then another generous cheque from CPKC to the Food Bank. It’s just example after example of people opening their hearts and their wallets."
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Mayor Genung also highlighted the Kiwanis Christmas Toy Project, which worked with FCSS to give 200 kids a magical Christmas shopping experience at Walmart.
"They got toys, mitts, food, a picture with Santa, all the things that some of us take for granted, but for these families, it meant the world."
Despite challenging economic times, Cochrane’s generosity hasn’t wavered.
"What struck me this year, and even the last couple of years, is that even when times are tough, the generosity hasn’t slowed. Maybe people aren’t able to give as much, but they’re still giving, which is pretty incredible to see."
The mayor reminded residents that there are many ways to give back, highlighting organizations such as the Helping Hands of Cochrane and Area, Rotary Club of Cochrane, and the Cochrane Lions Club, among others.
"There are so many groups in Cochrane doing great things, not for recognition, but because they genuinely care. At Christmas, it becomes more visible, but this is who we are year-round."