S’Aints ready to ‘sled’ hunger through annual fundraising concert

tomtidgewellNovember 24, 2022

The S’Aints band will give a sneak peek during the beneficiary announcement at Caesars Windsor’s Cosmos on Wednesday, November 23, 2022. Photo by Dax Melmer /windsor star

The S’Aints took to the Cosmos stage at Caesars Windsor on Wednesday to reveal the recipients of this year’s Sleighing Hunger fundraiser and provide a preview of the show, just some of what was to come.

Band members include Jodie Lafaure, Jeff Burroughs, Wes Buckley, Kelly “Mr. Chill” Hoppe, David Cyrenne, Kelly Authier, Marty Bak, Liz Robinson, Stephanie Baker and Jim O’Neil on December 23rd. The concert will perform popular Christmas tunes and songs about peace, benefiting 16 food banks through the Windsor-Essex Food Bank Association Chatham Outreach for Hunger.

“We have new music. We’re really excited. We’re rejuvenated,” Raffoul said following Wednesday morning’s three-song set. needs us more than ever.”

Patti France, Dean of St. Clair’s College, is 11^th Annual concerts are a cherished tradition.

“There’s a saying that it’s better to give than to receive, and it’s true, but for the past 11 years, this community-based project hasn’t had to choose between one or the other,” France said.

And the number of new users…has actually doubled

“Local food banks are supported and our guests enjoy great entertainment events.”

Over the past decade, sales of the Sleighing Hunger concerts and related CDs have raised over $300,000 for food banks and other social services.

The S'Aints band will give a sneak peek during the beneficiary announcement at Caesars Windsor's Cosmos on Wednesday, November 23, 2022. — The S’Aints band will give a sneak peek during the beneficiary announcement at Caesars Windsor’s Cosmos on Wednesday, November 23, 2022. Photo by Dax Melmer /windsor star

June Muir, chief executive of the UHC Hub of Opportunity and president of the Windsor-Essex Food Bank Association, said 149,000 people served their local food banks between January 1 and October 31. I said I received it. 2021 period.

“And the number of new users … has actually doubled,” Muir says. We have seen an increase in visits from visitors.

“The compounding effects of the pandemic and rising costs of living such as food, housing and utilities are forcing many people to go to food banks just to make ends meet. It has become indispensable.”

Outreach for Hunger Executive Director Brenda LeClair said the need is growing in Chatham-Kent as well.

“I know a lot of work has gone into preparation and organization by the band, St. Clair College and Caesars Windsor. I really want people to know that I am,” LeClair said. .

“We have seen a 20% increase in the number of families coming to us for our services. Your help and support is the only way we can continue to put food on the tables of those in need.”

Kevin Laforet, president of Caesars Windsor, said the casino was proud to be a part of the event.

“This concert event resonates with our employees, our customers and our community,” said Laforet. “I would like to thank and congratulate everyone involved.

“Buy a ticket, buy a CD, enjoy a great show for a cause.”

Lafort said the concert will feature “Christmas songs done in a rock-and-roll kind of way,” “Peace Songs,” a choir on stage this year, and “a few more surprises.”

“Together, we can make sure no one starves,” Muir said. .

“It’s a win-win because I’m giving back to the community while watching a great concert.”

Tickets for all age shows are $30 and are available at St. Clair College, Devonshire Mall, Caesars Windsor Box Office, and at caesarswindsor.com and ticketmaster.ca.

The show starts at 8pm at the Colosseum.

jkotsis@postmedia.com

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