Pay it Forward 2025

About 24 years ago, we realized how fortunate we were to be able to provide for our families and save for what we needed. Up to that point, our family and friends had been swept up in the commercialism of the holidays, exchanging gifts simply because it was expected. One year, we decided… enough was enough.

Instead of buying for one another, we proposed pooling our resources to support families who were struggling. Thanks to those of us working in school boards and community agencies, we were able to identify several families in need. That first year, we helped about six families—providing everything from stocking stuffers and presents to full Christmas meals.

Over time, more people stepped forward to help, and the number of families we supported continued to grow. As housing and food costs increased, the need became even more evident. It also became clear that we needed a way to expand our resources. Fourteen years ago, Brandon McPherson and Susan Reid introduced the idea of hosting a fundraiser—and the first “Pay It Forward” Silent Auction and Pub Night was held at Golden Brothers in Welland. It was an incredible success.

Last year, thanks to the generosity of our community, we were able to assist just over 100 families, from Wainfleet to Grimsby and everywhere in between.

Every dollar and every donated item goes directly to supporting families in need. None of this would be possible without the unwavering generosity of local individuals and businesses. We encourage you to take a moment to look at the bid sheets and see the names of the wonderful donors who make this event possible.

Thank you for your interest, support, and belief in this initiative.
 If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Greg Sentance, Brandon McPherson, Susan Reid, or Pauline Sentance.

With sincere appreciation,
 The Pay It Forward Committee

About 24 years ago, we realized how fortunate we were to be able to provide for our families and save for what we needed. Up to that point, our family and friends had been swept up in the commercialism of the holidays, exchanging gifts simply because it was expected. One year, we decided… enough was enough.

Instead of buying for one another, we proposed pooling our resources to support families who were struggling. Thanks to those of us working in school boards and community agencies, we were able to identify several families in need. That first year, we helped about six families—providing everything from stocking stuffers and presents to full Christmas meals.

Over time, more people stepped forward to help, and the number of families we supported continued to grow. As housing and food costs increased, the need became even more evident. It also became clear that we needed a way to expand our resources. Fourteen years ago, Brandon McPherson and Susan Reid introduced the idea of hosting a fundraiser—and the first “Pay It Forward” Silent Auction and Pub Night was held at Golden Brothers in Welland. It was an incredible success.

Last year, thanks to the generosity of our community, we were able to assist just over 100 families, from Wainfleet to Grimsby and everywhere in between.

Every dollar and every donated item goes directly to supporting families in need. None of this would be possible without the unwavering generosity of local individuals and businesses. We encourage you to take a moment to look at the bid sheets and see the names of the wonderful donors who make this event possible.

Thank you for your interest, support, and belief in this initiative.
 If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Greg Sentance, Brandon McPherson, Susan Reid, or Pauline Sentance.

With sincere appreciation,
 The Pay It Forward Committee

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