Bradford sisters Sarah and Emily Dahlgren were recognized for their efforts in raising $50,000 for the local food bank in a presentation at Tuesday night's virtual town council meeting.
The teen sisters, founders of A Bradford Christmas, a charity fundraiser supporting The Helping Hand Food Bank and their Christmas hamper program, challenged themselves and the rest of the community this past fall to come together, and raise money for the cause.
Because of their efforts, the food bank was able to provide Christmas hampers filled with food and staples for the holidays for over 200 Bradford families.
Through local fundraising events, a silent auction, toonie drives, and business donations, the girls were able to surpass their fundraising goal by $63 just hours before presenting the cheque to the food bank at the Bradford Community Centre on Dec. 17.
Mayor Rob Keffer, members of council along with MPP Caroline Mulroney and MP Scot Davidson expressed their gratitude and support for the girls and commended their efforts in achieving such a large feat while presenting them with a certificate of acknowledgement on behalf of the town.
"We thought this would be a special way to recognize you," said Mayor Keffer, "this is the first time we've had a presentation like this to recognize outstanding achievement."
"Your hard work, dedication and leadership brought the community together during this great time of need, your selflessness and service to others and your enthusiasm raised our spirits, encouraged the best in people and demonstrated a genuine care for others," read the certificate.
"This is a big night, this was an extraordinary achievement," said MP Davidson. "You inspired the whole community, everyone got behind you."
Davidson was one of the girls' largest supporters throughout the campaign, matching donations from both the Freshii and Firehouse Subs fundraising events.
"You've become role models for everyone to aspire to," said Davidson.
MPP Mulroney, who also supported the girls at many of their fundraising events in the fall, commended the girls' accomplishment for the town.
"Your generosity and creativity are a great example of leadership," she said. "I was always so impressed by their dedication to reaching those in need."
Mulroney also gave a special thank you to the girls' parents Sandra and Sean, who supported the girls throughout the entire endeavour, assisting behind the scenes.
"Sandra and Sean, thank you for raising such strong, determined young women," she said. "I want to encourage you to keep going and build on your success and never underestimate your power."
Deputy Mayor James Leduc who volunteers regularly with the Bradford Helping Hand Food Bank said he was extremely happy with the way the sisters were able to bring a whole community together to help those in need.
"It's fantastic to see a family do this for the community," he said, "You've made so many people happy. That money was well spent and made over 200 families happy and smile, thank you very much."
Coun. Ron Orr commented on how great it was to see youth in the community doing such selfless work.
"I really feel good when we have young people like you that Canada and Ontario will be in good hands for the future," he said.
The sisters were overcome with emotion and expressed their gratitude for all the messages from the town's dignitaries and all their support.
"Bradford is an amazing community," said Emily, "Thank you so much for all your support from you and the community, we really appreciate everything, thank you so much."
"This is a really nice way to start the new year on a positive note and to recognize a family that did so much," said the mayor.
After a long six months of planning, organizing and fundraising, the sisters are taking a much-needed month-long break before jumping back in to start preparing for next year's campaign.
To learn more about the sisters and their charity, visit their Facebook page here or follow them on Instagram @abradfordchristmas.
