21st annual Cans for a Cause returns

The 21st annual Cans for a Cause has returned Friday, taking place at Devonshire Mall.

The event is put on by AM800 News, 93.9 Virgin Radio, Pure Country 89 and CTV Windsor. Volunteers collect non-perishable food and money, donated by community members and sent to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

“People aren’t able to keep up anymore and people that were once donors are now recipients from St. Vincent,” said Kristen Hazael, senior promotions coordinator for Bell Media Windsor.

“It’s something they’re seeing a lot of. It’s great that we can come together, and we can help out such a great organization that does spread the love throughout all of the community as well.”

AM800's Meg Roberts and Mike Kakuk at Cans for a Cause at Devonshire Mall in Windsor, Ont. on Dec. 13, 2024. (Lori Berg/CTV News Windsor)

St. Vincent has seen a 216 per cent user increase from 2022 to 2023. From 2023 to this year, it was an additional 150 per cent increase. But, Windsorites are out to support their peers.

“Every time I think we’ve hit a new record, they keep managing to surpass it,” said Hazael.

“They’re such a giving community and they’re so generous with their donations, even though so many people are struggling. They still find it in their hearts to help those that are struggling a little bit more.”

93.9 Virgin Radio's Hannah Witherbee and Johnny Parks at the Cans for a Cause event at Devonshire Mall in Windsor, Ont. on Dec. 13, 2024. (Lori Berg/CTV News Windsor)

Last year, more than $40,000 was raised and more than 60,000 food items were donated.

If you would like to make a donation, you can bring non-perishable food items to Devonshire Mall in the food court, where AM800 news is set up and broadcasting. There is also a drive through option near the Keg from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Cash donations can be made here or call 519-966-2267.

- With files from AM800.