March 6, 2024
In a heartwarming display of generosity – Scouts Canada found itself the recipient of a monumental donation – a large shipment of dishes and kitchenware.
The story began when Kevin Anyan, Associate Director of Properties for Scouts Canada, heard of an incredible opportunity to secure a large amount of dishes. Cadillac Fairview, who owns a number of shopping malls including the Rideau Centre in Ottawa had plans to use the dishes and kitchenware in 2019 in its Food Court. After 2022, a policy change resulted in the Rideau Centre continuing to use its disposable kitchenware and meant that they needed to get rid of the melamine dishes they once planned to use.
Kevin reached out to his network of contacts and rallied a team of transport trucks for the mission to transport the dishes from Ottawa to Camp Samac. So many dishes, in fact that it radiated to other camps across Ontario. On Saturday Feb.10, a Great Dish Giveaway event was held, with many staff and volunteers from properties across Ontario descending upon Camp Samac to secure a dish donation for their own camps along with a slice of pizza.
The donation, valued over $50,000, promises to revolutionize the camp’s dining experience and provide the convenience of not having to lug along their own plates, bowls, mugs and silverware.
Dishwashing boosts camaraderie among the campers and teaches them responsibility. All cabins and lodges at Camp Samac are equipped with stainless steel 3-compartment sinks designed to be able to handle teams of 2-5 ‘scrubbers and splashers’.
As the sun sets over Camp Samac, the sound of laughter and the clatter of dishware fills the air, echoing the spirit of goodwill that brought about this remarkable donation. Thank you to Cadillac Fairview Rideau Centre and to Kevin Anyan for arranging this incredible donation.