The Salvation Army's Services In Jeopardy With $88,000 Shortfall of Fundraising Goal

The Salvation Army Peterborough has an $88,000 fundraising shortfall to continue supporting services this year.

Photo courtesy of the Salvation Army in Peterborough.

According to a press release, Christmas fundraising determines the budget for the following year through their upcoming Hope for All Seasons Christmas Appeal campaign. The organization raised only $582,000 of the $670,000 needed to meet expected demand. By year's end, the Breakfast Program alone will have served 26,000 meals as resources have been stretched thin according to Major Naomi Dalley, supervisor of the social services program.

“We had to find creative solutions to ensure everyone received something,” she said. “It has been a hard year.”

The Salvation Army also opened a local shelter temporarily, which they state has added pressure for additional funding. Though repairs are complete and the shelter has reopened, some clients turned to The Salvation Army for help during the closure.

“Whenever a local resource centre experiences a setback, we experience part of the ripple effect,” says Dalley.

This year, the fundraising goal is $675,000 to meet the projected demand for services.

The budget includes funding for the Christmas Assistance Program. It provides grocery cards and toys for children; the Breakfast Program, which serves hot morning meals; and the food bank. Funds also support emergency assistance, which offers financial relief for rent, utilities and medical costs for those in urgent need; a trustee program, which helps clients budget; and criminal justice services, which helps clients meet restitution requirements and supports those leaving correctional institutions as they reintegrate into society.

“The $88,000 shortfall hit hard and we still have a couple of months to go,” said Dalley. “Every donation helps us continue providing essential services to people who need them.”

Christmas kettles will be available starting Nov. 12 at locations throughout Peterborough. A kettle will also be available during the Peterborough Petes’ Teddy Bear Toss game on Dec. 10. Donations can also be made online.

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Cancer Takedown's Fifth Year to Dish Out Body Slams In Support of Cancer Care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre

Cancer Takedown will ‘slam’ the evening with songs, stories, and solidarity for the fifth year to support cancer care at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

Photo courtesy of Market Hall.

The event takes place on Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. at Market Hall Performance Centre.

Cancer Takedown is co-hosted by comedic powerhouses Linda Kash and Megan Murphy. Acts include musicians Melissa Payne, Kate Suhr and Kate Brioux. Special guest performers include Beau Dixon and The Weber Brothers. Appearing are Anthony Bastianon and MD supergroup Good Medicine. Local talent Kim Dafoe will put on a unique performance. Nicholas Campbell, Brandon Munroe and Ian McKeown round out the lineup as the house band.

Beyond raising funds, Cancer Takedown says it aims to raise awareness of the emotional and mental burden of cancer, uniting people through shared experience. The show features cancer stories, focused on coping with the rollercoaster of emotions that are an inevitable part of the cancer experience.

Cancer Takedown was co-founded by husband-and-wife team Rick and Amy Kemp. Rick has been diagnosed with two separate cancers and, over the past eight years, has undergone every possible form of treatment. Both continue to cope with life-changing mobility issues for Rick and the ongoing mental challenges that the aftermath of cancer brings.

“The physical battle of cancer is tough, but the mental battle is even tougher. It’s a battle you can’t really fight; you just work your way through. Cancer Takedown is an opportunity to remind people they can get through.” Rick Kemp, Cancer Takedown Co-Founder.

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Hospice Peterborough and the Community Raise a Record-Breaking $148,000 at Hike For Hospice

Nearly 440 people walked at Millennium Park to raise a record-breaking $148,000 at Hike For Hospice in support of Hospice Peterborough on Sept. 27.

Photo courtesy of Anne Leavens and Hospice Peterborough.

The amount surpassed last year’s $138,000, with 360 hikers, and this year’s funds will support the Hospice’s palliative and bereavement work.

The day saw face painting for children, memorial crafts and a sponsor song led by Hajni Jos, Hospice executive director.

Participants walked from the Silver Bean Cafe in Millennium Park to Beavermead Beach. Those wanting an easier route turned around at Roger’s Cove.

Notorious T.A.S.H. led fundraising with $12,960, while Hospice Peterborough’s staff team Heart and Sole followed with $12,025.

Kyle McConnell, Notorious T.A.S.H. team captain, led fundraising for the third consecutive year, raising $4,530. His late wife, Tash, was a nurse who worked at Hospice Peterborough and Peterborough Regional Health Centre until she passed away in hospice in 2024 from cancer at the age of 39.

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Canadian Canoe Museum’s Second Annual Lakeside Gala Raises $154,000

The Canadian Canoe Museum raised $154,000 during its second annual Lakeside Gala on Saturday night.

Photo courtesy of the Canadian Canoe Museum.

The Museum raised funds through ticket sales, sponsorships, donations and auction proceeds. An additional $62,000 was raised through in-kind contributions.

“It was a really special evening. There was so much generosity throughout the night. It was a great reflection of the people and organizations who have helped make the Museum what it is today,” said Carolyn Hyslop, executive director. “It was wonderful to see so many people come together for an evening that celebrated the Museum and its place in this community.”

Funds raised support the care of the Museum’s nationally significant collection, exhibitions, educational and cultural programming.

The event saw Museum supporters, community members, artists, makers and business leaders to celebrate the Museum’s work and its people. Janet McCue from Curve Lake First Nation opened the Gala with drumming, welcoming guests to the Museum.

Culinary stations throughout the Museum and Lakefront Campus featured offerings from Cheeky Duck Vineyard, Chemong Lodge, Flying Chestnut Kitchen, Love You, Mean It, MIJA Bakeshop, and Silver Bean Cafe, along with beverages from Little Miss Drinky Poo. Renowned pianist Thompson Egbo-Egbo and award-winning local musician JJ Thompson rounded out the evening with performances.

A highlight of the evening was the expanded live and silent auctions, featuring a curated collection of one-of-a-kind artwork, tripping gear, dining gift cards, custom home decor and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. This year, the auctions moved online, giving guests the opportunity to bid leading up to the event and throughout the evening from their personal devices.

The Museum also launched a Paddles Up campaign in support of its Youth Backcountry Tripping Program. With leadership support from The Lindsay Family Foundation, the museum received six new tripping canoes and twelve paddles to help build a dedicated fleet for the growing program. During the Gala, guests helped raise the funds for two additional canoes, bringing the fleet to eight.

“The Canadian Canoe Museum is an amazing place, and our family strongly believes in the great work they do,” said Don Lindsay. “We’re delighted to support the Backcountry Canoe Tripping Program with six new canoes and help give young people the opportunity to experience the outdoors, build confidence and create lasting memories.”

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PHOTOS: United Way's Fundraising Campaign Starts With Trent University's Kick-Off BBQ

To help kickstart United Way of Peterborough & District's 2026 fundraising campaign goal of $1.585 million, Trent University filled some bellies by launching its Kick-Off BBQ on Thursday morning.

Julie Davis, Trent VP of external relations, marketing and communications about to catch a fresh burger patty off the grill from Jason Seguya, United Way CEO. All photos by David Tuan Bui.

Students, staff and the public were invited to grab a hamburger, hot dog or veggie burger with chips and pop in support of the Trent University 2026 United Way Campaign.

The campaign raises money towards United Way’s annual fundraiser. Since 1965, Trent University has raised over $2.9 million for United Way through its annual campaigns and support from faculty, staff and retirees. Last year, Trent raised $124,847, surpassing its $100,000 goal.

@ptbo_canada To help kickstart United Way of Peterborough & District's 2026 fundraising campaign goal of $1.585 million, Trent University filled some bellies by launching its Kick-Off BBQ. #fyp #news #ptbocanada #trentuniversity #unitedway ♬ Fog Halo Groove - Wendy Harp

United Way unveiled its fundraising goal on Sept. 17, with Tiffany Arcari as this year’s campaign chair and Jason Seguya in his first year as CEO, succeeding Jim Russell. The latter retired after a 15-year tenure.

New this fundraising year is United Way’s launch of its Certified Neighbour clothing collection.

The collection shows your community spirit while helping spread the message that everyone has a role to play in building a stronger Peterborough and District.

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With New Faces Leading the Charge, United Way Announces Goal to Raise $1.585 Million For 2026 Campaign

Under new leadership, United Way of Peterborough & District unveiled its 2026 campaign goal of $1.585 million, announced at the Healthy Planet Arena on Thursday afternoon.

United Way supports a network of 20 local partner agencies that work across a range of community needs, from housing and homelessness to food security, youth and family support, mental health, community connection, and more. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The 85th Community Campaign for United Way’s goal is a slight decrease from last year’s $1.6 million

Tiffany Arcari, Community Manager at Gauvreau Accounting & Tax Law, is chairing the campaign. She says it encourages individuals, workplaces and organizations across the region to find their own way to contribute to the community.

“We’re all carrying something, and sometimes a little kindness, a little support, or someone showing up can make a world of difference. And our community is facing some very real social challenges right now. The United Way is already doing the work to help address those challenges, and if we want to see change in our community, this is one of the most meaningful ways we can be part of it,” said Arcari. “That’s what I want to see this year... in our community, in our workplaces, and in our businesses. More people feeling connected to the campaign, more workplaces finding their own way to get involved, and all of us coming together to reach that $1.58 million goal. Because when we look out for each other, we don’t just raise money. We help build the kind of community we want to live in.”

This is the first campaign under new United Way CEO Jason Seguya. He joined United Way Peterborough & District earlier this summer after former CEO Jim Russell retired after a 15-year tenure.

“A campaign goal gives us a number to reach. Our neighbours, and our collective care for the future gives us a reason to reach it,” said Seguya. “While I hold the privilege of leading this organization, it belongs to this community and every person in this room has a part in this future.”

New this year is United Way’s launch of its Certified Neighbour clothing collection.

The collection shows your community spirit while helping spread the message that everyone has a role to play in building a stronger Peterborough and District.

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PHOTOS: A Taste of the East Coast Hits Chemong Lodge For Conman's Fifth Annual Lobsterfest to Support Oceans Initiative

Fresh Maritime crustaceans were grilled up and the drinks were free-flowing at Chemong Lodge for its Conman’s Fifth Annual Lobsterfest to Support Oceans Initiative on Sunday.

All photos by David Tuan Bui.

The event featured live music, a live pipe band from the Hastings & Prince Edward Regimental Association Pipe Band, alcohol tents, an ice cream station, a bouncy castle, fresh Maritime lobsters, a fireworks show and a silent auction in support of Oceans Initiative.

The event honours the late Connor Brown, brother of Chemong Lodge owners Adam and Addison Brown. In 2018, Connor lost his life in a commercial diving accident. Chemong Lodge chose to support Oceans Initiative as a meaningful way to honour his memory and continue his legacy of connection to the sea.

The initiative's mission is to protect marine life and the ecosystems they depend on, and to share innovative science to guide conservation action, according to their website.

@ptbo_canada Fresh Maritime crustaceans were grilled up and the drinks were free-flowing at Chemong Lodge for its Conman’s fifth annual Lobsterfest to support Oceans Initiative on Sunday. ##fyp##news##ptbocanada##journalism##lobsterfest ♬ Tropical C - Worldwide Beatsnation

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The Rotary Club of Peterborough's 'Fore the Kids' Fundraiser Golf Tournament Hits the Greens On Sept. 17

The Rotary Club of Peterborough is hitting the links for its annual ‘Fore the Kids Golf Tournament’ on Sept. 17 at the Katchiwano Golf Club in support of Rotary projects and Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC).

Rotarian and City Councillor Kevin Duguay opts to hit two balls simultaneously during the Media vs. Rotarians putting challenge to launch the event. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Golfers, regardless of skill level, are invited to register for $200 per person which includes a round of golf, a cart, lunch and a chance to win prizes. This year’s fees include the Rotary’s passport which offers mulligans, pro driver shots and raffle tickets.

“The Fore the Kids Charity Golf Tournament is a great example of our community coming together to support local children and families,” said Scott Pepin, CEO, Five Counties Children's Centre We are grateful to the Rotary Club of Peterborough, Linwood Homes, and everyone involved for helping raise funds that make a lasting difference for children receiving services through Five Counties Children's Centre.”

@ptbo_canada The Rotary Club of Peterborough is hitting the links for its annual ‘Fore the Kids Golf Tournament’ on Sept. 17 Katchiwano Golf Club in support of Rotary projects and Five Counties Children’s Centre. #rotaryclub #fyp #news #ptbocanada #journalism ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

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Gauvreau Accounting's Fifth Annual 'Gear Up For Good' to Give Children Across Canada 300 Stuffed Backpacks For Back to School

For the fifth year in a row, Gauvreau Accounting, Tax, Law & Advisory is giving kids across Canada a head start for back-to-school with its Gear Up for Good campaign, providing 300 fully stocked backpacks to children in need, announced on Thursday.

Bob Gauvreau, Gauvreau Accounting CEO (right) with staff; members of Big Brothers, Big Sisters Peterborough; Kawartha-Haliburton Children's Foundation and more with backpacks to be stuffed and ready for donation for children getting ready to get back to school. Since the campaign began, the community has helped provide over 600 fully stocked backpacks to children and families. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This year’s campaign aims to send 200 backpacks for children in Ontario and 100 for children in Manitoba. The backpacks in Ontario are for children affiliated with Big Brothers Big Sisters Peterborough and Kawartha-Haliburton Children's Foundation.

“Every child deserves to feel prepared and excited when they walk into their first day of school,” said Bob Gauvreau, CEO of Gauvreau Accounting, Tax, Law & Advisory. “Gear Up for Good is about more than backpacks- it’s really about bringing businesses, employees, and community members together to make a meaningful difference for families who need support.”

Gauvreau Accounting invites local businesses, organizations and community members to help by donating backpacks, school supplies, healthy snacks, water bottles, lunch pails, children’s haircuts or salon/barber services or financial contributions to help purchase needed items.

@ptbo_canada For the fifth year in a row, Gauvreau Accounting, Tax, Law & Advisory is giving kids across Canada a head start for back-to-school with its Gear Up for Good campaign, providing 300 fully stocked backpacks to children in need. #fyp #news #ptbocanada #journalism #backtoschool ♬ Reflections on 52nd - AGM3

“Community partnerships are what make this campaign possible,” said Gauvreau. “Whether it’s a fully stocked backpack, a haircut before the first day of school, or a donation of supplies, every single contribution helps set a child up for success- gives them confidence to start the school year.”

The campaign runs from July 23 to Aug. 12. Donations can be made through its webpage or donations can be dropped off at 150 King Street, Suite 100 W, by Aug. 12 at noon. Backpacks will be distributed on Aug. 18.

“The more that we can pack in here for these kids and their families, the more it supports their success throughout the years,” said Gauvreau.

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Community Care Peterborough’s Fifth Annual Apsley Gaming Night Raises Record-Breaking Amount

Community Care Peterborough’s Apsley office hosted its fifth annual Apsley Gaming Night, raising a record-breaking $21,411, which was held at the North Kawartha Community Centre on June 20.

Photo courtesy of Community Care Peterborough.

The event attracted over 100 people and initially raised $11,411 for the Apsley community. An anonymous donation of $10,000 helped break the fundraising record.

“This event would not have been a success without our dedicated team of volunteers and supporters from the community,” said Katie Bryck, Apsley Community Development Coordinator.

The night featured casino games, food and prizes for the attendees.

“It’s wonderful to see returning sponsors and community supporters who come out each year for a fun evening that also supports our programs for seniors and adults with disabilities,” said Bryck.

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