MOOSE JAW — Project Shine marked its third year with another powerful show of generosity, as Moose Jaw residents came together throughout May to honour and support the seniors who have helped build the community.
Together with SaskWater, the Moose Jaw Co-op raised a total of $10,437.62 in support of the Moose Jaw and District Senior Citizens Association (MJDSCA). That number includes matching donations of $2,500 each from both partner organizations, as well as a generous $500 contribution from Cypress Paving.
“Working with SaskWater on this initiative for the third year has been incredibly special,” said Michaela Turner, community relations manager at Moose Jaw Co-op. “We’re passionate about the groups we choose each year, and this time we had the honour of standing alongside our seniors and saying: ‘We see you, we thank you, and we support you.’ A huge thank you to Cypress Paving as well — their $500 donation was extremely generous and helped make this campaign a true success.”
Project Shine ran throughout May at all participating Moose Jaw Co-op locations, including the Food Store, gas bars, Agro Centre, and satellite branches in Avonlea, Sask., and Liberty, Sask. While the core campaign in Moose Jaw focused on raising funds to revitalize the MJDSCA’s kitchen at the Timothy Eaton Centre, the initiative also extended to surrounding communities.
In Avonlea, $744 was donated to the Coteau Range Manor, while the Liberty location helped raise $415.76 for the Long Lake Valley Recreation Department in Imperial, Sask.
The idea for Project Shine originated three years ago through a partnership between Turner and Courtney Mihalicz, corporate communications manager at SaskWater, with the goal of highlighting and supporting local organizations that help “Strengthen, Unite and Nurture” communities.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the community come together to support our seniors,” Mihalicz said. “SaskWater is proud to match community donations and partner with organizations like Moose Jaw Co-op who are also truly invested in making a difference where we live and work.”
Funds raised through this year’s campaign will go directly toward a major kitchen upgrade at the Timothy Eaton Centre. The renovation project — which includes the purchase of freezers, a cooler, and other commercial-grade appliances — aims to expand the MJDSCA’s ability to serve nutritious meals and host inclusive programs for the city’s growing senior population.
MJDSCA currently has about 500 active members, with a goal to grow that number to 1,000 in the coming years. In addition to the on-site café supported by this campaign, the MJDSCA offers a full slate of programming designed to reduce social isolation and support wellness among older adults.
Moose Jaw Co-op and SaskWater extended thanks to everyone who contributed this year, noting that Project Shine would not be possible without the generosity of local residents.
“Your generosity continues to make a meaningful difference,” Turner said.
For more information about Project Shine, visit MooseJawCo-op.crs or SaskWater.com.
The seniors’ association operates out of the Timothy Eaton Gardens building at 510 Main Street North. For membership details or information on upcoming programs for adults over 50, call 306-694-4223 or visit MooseJawSeniors.ca.
