Not only did this year's Windsor Goodfellows paper drive exceed its goal, but it also broke a previous record.
Volunteers in Windsor, LaSalle, and Tecumseh raised $403,000 selling newspapers between November 23 and 25 to support programs in the community.
"We didn't think we'd get anywhere near that," incoming president Brian Beaumont exclaimed.
The goal was $375,000, and Beaumont said the organization doubted it would pull in that much. Working in the Windsor Goodfellows warehouse, he knows how much food prices have increased and the struggle even the middle class faces.
"Everybody is facing much tougher times now," he explained.
That helps explain why demand for their services has shot up 43 per cent from last year.
"By the time you pay your rent and utilities, and if you're lucky enough to have a car, there's not a lot left over for groceries," said Beaumont.
When the paper drive raised $392,000 last year, the organization thought it was an anomaly. A documentary on their work had just been released, and organizers credited the boost in media attention.
The Windsor Goodfellows is best known for its Christmas Hamper program, providing the less fortunate with what they need to enjoy the holidays. It also supports a food bank, a boot and shoe program for school-aged children, breakfast programs in 33 local schools, and a lunch bag program for those experiencing homelessness.
