Volunteers of the Month: St. Thomas Little Helpers by Peri Haye s
In early March of this year, Colette Dodds launched St. Thomas Little Helpers -- an engaging volunteer-based organization. Their first food fundraiser took place on March 23rd at Freshco, with all donations directed toward Destination Church. On June 22nd, they held their first BBQ fundraiser and divided their food donations between Destination Church and Inn Out of the Cold St. Thomas- Elgin. “We are a not-for-profit,” Colette introduces, “With the premise of providing non-perishable ingredients for a meal to get you through.” Colette candidly shares about her background: “I was homeless and hungry, a product of abuse, and living in group home after group home. I struggled with addiction. I pulled myself up, and I am alive.” Following this and prior to her extenuating circumstances, Colette was a business owner. She has since resided in St. Thomas for 10 years and counting, all the while dedicating her energy toward uplifting the community through conducting gift card giveaways and much more. Through various aforementioned donating avenues, as well as Colette’s desire to cultivate meaningful connections in her community, the idea of St. Thomas Little Helpers was born. “I needed a purpose. I will give my last dollar for someone to have a meal,” Colette declares. “Everything is out of love.” Believing in her vision, Pauline Fugard has partnered with Colette in this venture. “We need more angels like Colette,” Pauline insists. The pair began their journey in the downtown core, establishing two pantries. Thus far, St. Thomas Little Helpers has received over- whelming support. Pauline exclaims, “The donations coming in are remarkable.” Colette enthusiastically continues, “I could endlessly thank the people in St. Thomas and London, and those who helped us get to where we are today.” The team is pleased to announce that within their initial six months of operation, $4,000.00 have been poured into the community.
St. Thomas Little Helpers, Pauline and Colette.
Joe Dodds, Colette’s beloved husband, is the Manager at Mufflerman. Colette expresses her immense gratitude for Joe’s ongoing contributions to the success of St. Thomas Little Helpers. Moreover, Colette proudly acknowledges the growth facilitated by Pauline since their initiative’s debut, rejoicing, “She is doing amazing!” To celebrate the beginning of the 2024-2025 academic year, St. Thomas Little Helpers created two giveaways which featured backpacks filled with school stationery, snacks, soap, toilet paper and so forth. They are graciously accepting donations while preparing to support three families this Christmas season, with the means to supply a week’s worth of meals. Most recently, Pauline has been delightedly crocheting hats for individuals at Inn Out of the Cold. Together, Colette and Pauline aim to educate members of the community about available resources in the area. Contact Colette by phone at 519-872-0564, and visit their “St. Thomas Little Helpers 2024” Facebook page for further information about this organization. It is encouraged that those interested in placing a donation state their intent upon joining this Facebook group.
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Page 4 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • October 2024
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