Team Canabury, 2026 by Peri Hayes In January of this year, an independent local group travelled to Mandeville, Jamaica with purpose. The project was coordinated by Wendell Graves, who is a volunteer with a Canadian organization called Catalyste+; striving to stimulate economic growth in developing regions around the world. Wendell had been collaborating on a project with municipal leaders in Mandeville over a two-year period when he visited a local children’s home operated by The Salvation Army, known as the Hanbury Home for Children. Through continued discussion, several property maintenance necessities at the home were identified. From this, the plan was born for Wendell to return with support in the form of ‘Team Canabury, 2026’. Wendell and Cindy Graves (Aylmer) curated a team of seven for ‘Team Canabury 2026’, including the following members: Eric Bartlett (Aylmer), Kayla Campbell (Tillsonburg), Rick and Sandra Singer (St. Thomas), and Cally Tisdale (Lyons). Each team member paid for their own expenses, dedicating themselves to this work for the duration of their 10-day mission. The primary focus for the team would be to rehabilitate the girls’ dorm. The Hanbury Home is currently home to about 40 children, both girls and boys, between the ages of 5 and 18. As the property is improved, there is the potential to support more children. Team Canabury was welcomed by The Salvation Army’s Majors, Hery and Julmene Leconte. The Lecontes prepared their guest house on the property. The team was also grateful to squeeze in some activity time with the children, enjoying crafts, playing outdoors with a parachute and more. From their perspective, the Graves cannot say enough about how invested Major Leconte and his entire family are in the wellbeing of the children.
As Wendell describes, “They were totally immersed in these kids’ lives”. In addition to rehabilitating the dorm, the team was able to provide a variety of functional supplies, such as two new washing machines and a freezer. Personal hygiene products were also collected, along with treats for the children. Wendell voices, “All of this was made possible by many generous donations from across Elgin County and beyond. To highlight just a couple, Sandra Singer — through The Heart and Hands Guild of Elgin County — arranged the donation of two sewing machines and sewing supplies. As well, the Elgin Innovation Centre in Aylmer became one of many wonderful financial sponsors. Before receiving the washing machines, staff at the Hanbury Home were washing all the laundry by hand.” Moreover, the team appreciates WestJet for providing — through their humanitarian program — the ability to travel with extra luggage at no cost.
Wednesday July 8th 9am – 2pm Pinafore Park 95 Elm St., St. Thomas Celebrating a 27-Year Tradition of Music, Fun & Camaraderie Bring a lawn chair
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oomers B and EYOND B Thank you for the continued support
Page 44 Hometown St. Thomas • June 2026
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