By Cecilia Nasmith

It was the most delightful of errands that brought Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre staffers to Cobourg's Home Depot Monday morning – the presentation of a $19,323.40 cheque made possible by Home Depot's Orange Door Project Campaign.

This great a result was made possible by the dedicated staff at the Cobourg store, as well as the generosity of the Northumberland community members who shop there. Their efforts and generosity placed the store among the top six Home Depots nationwide in Orange Door Project fundraising, qualifying them for a matching gift from the Home Depot Canada Foundation.

“You guys worked so hard. We can't thank you enough,” Cornerstone Manager of Community Engagement Janelle Eisler said to the Home Depot staff gathered to present the cheque.

Tokens of appreciation will be forwarded to the store next week, Eisler added, along with posters for the staff break room conveying their thanks – the best they can do during COVID conditions.

Manager of Communications and Donor Relations Carly Cunningham recalled the exciting moment they got the call to tell them the good news. The amount was so high they asked to have it repeated. When it was confirmed, there were literally shouts of joy.

“The results of the 2021 Orange Door Project Campaign are life-changing for so many women and children impacted by violence in our community,” Cornerstone Executive Director Nancy Johnston said.

“These funds will play an integral role in helping to end homelessness throughout Northumberland County, One door an truly make all the difference, and we are so grateful for the outpouring of support from the community and staff at the Cobourg store.”

The annual Orange Door campaign mounted in Home Depot stores throughout Canada strives to improve housing options, support life-skills-development programs and invests in research that ensures funding is directed to the most effective solutions designed to help youth build brighter futures.”

Home Depot Canada Foundation Community Investment Specialist Devon Montemurro pointed out the achievement of winning the matching-gift campaign for the Cobourg store and its staff

“Their performance is recognized and celebrated across the country,” Montemurro declared.

“Thank you to our associates and the Cobourg customers for sharing our dedication to giving back and helping vulnerable youth in our communities. Recognizing that together we can make a big difference really encompasses what the Orange Door Project is all about.”