To The Haldimand Press
DUNNVILLE—In 2014, Dunnville resident Julia Marchese, owner of Julia’s Bistro & Catering, recognized a way to help her community by giving the joy of Christmas to those who needed it with a family-oriented Christmas dinner. She decided to take it a step further and started collecting donations so she could ensure every participant had a present to look forward to as well. Eight years ago, this is where her journey began.
She has had tremendous growth over these past eight years, eventually opening a thrift store on Broad Street in Dunnville called Julia’s Care-a-Closet. It was just a small space, which she funded with her own money, and with the help of dedicated community volunteers she made it work. As the organization progressed, she was able to register as a charitable organization, which allowed her an opportunity to expand. She registered the organization as “Julia’s Old-Fashioned Christmas Charity” as a reminder that this was where the journey began. She has since moved the organization to a more centralized part of town, 108 Bridge Street, Dunnville. She still holds the annual Christmas dinner where she brings joy to over 200 community members every Christmas.
Last week on April 25, 2023 the organization held their first community meeting. This was a huge success, with many individuals attending to see what the organization’s goals were and to meet Julia. Discussions included the concerns and needs within the community, new and ongoing ideas, and ways community members could volunteer. Minutes of this meeting and other community events can be viewed on the Community Hub Board. The bulletin board will be going up this week and will include a list of events that can be found in the community, such as free community meals, activities, and fundraising events. This will be a hub for community members to find everything the community has to offer all in one centralized place.
Coming this week from May 4-6 a food drive will be held. There is a dire need for non-perishable food and frozen items. When a bag of food is donated during the drive, a $2 in-store credit for the thrift store will be given, redeemable at the time of donation. For any monetary donations, e-transfers can be made to juliascareacloset@gmail.com.
We are excited to announce that barbecue fundraising events will be held outside the thrift store every Saturday, until the end of the summer season. All money raised will help support our local community. For more information you can view the Community Hub Board located in the store. Most news, events, and organizational updates can also be viewed on their Facebook page.
Volunteers are a very important part of this organization. Currently there are no paid employees, so this organization is only possible because of these dedicated volunteers. As this organization grows new volunteer positions become available. If you have a special talent, are looking to make new friends, or just want to make an impact in your community, please consider stopping by and signing up. There are positions available for events, in-store positions, project planning committees, etc. Whether you have one day available or if you could volunteer ongoing it always makes a difference.
For more information on volunteering, donating, or events please call the store at 905-701-4040 or come in and speak to them directly at 108 Bridge Street, Dunnville.
