The gift bags donated by Keewaywin Northern to the Elders of the community consisted of several essential items.

The Northern store in Keewaywin, ON has been showing their support and appreciation for the Elders in the community, by implementing several programs for their benefit.

These Elders have helped to make a significant difference in the fight against COVID-19 by following all the required guidelines. Recently, the store implemented a daily “Elders’ Hour” from 10 to11 a.m., during which they can shop hassle-free without waiting in line for long periods.

“Being with The North West Company means that every community always wants to make sure that their Elders are taken care of,” said Keewaywin Northern Store Manager Justin Janes.

This idea came about based on discussion at a weekly crisis community meeting that Janes regularly attends. The dedicated hour gives Elders the convenience, time and flexibility to shop for essential items they might need. The store’s staff members have also been helping the Elders do their shopping.

Keewaywin Northern even went a step further to help the local Elders – in early April, they donated gift bags of essentials such as bread, eggs and milk to all of the Elders in the community, to remind them that they are not alone during these challenging times.

The store’s Grocery Supervisor Stanley Fiddler helped to deliver the gift bags to the Elders’ houses. He left the bags outside the Elders’ doors, then stepped back to watch from a safe distance while the Elders received their gifts.

The idea was born from a discussion between Janes and his wife, who are new to Keewaywin.

“The program was well-received in the community, which was a great feeling. Being new to this community, I wanted to make sure that I let the people know we are here to help and we are here to keep their community members safe while they shop at their local Northern,” Janes said.