Show off your skills on the court and have fun dunking for a good cause in Bradford this Saturday.
Ward 1 Coun. Cheraldean Duhaney welcomes everyone to lace up for the Hoop for a Cause Community Food Drive, where they can join the three-on-three basketball tournament, enjoy music from DJ Dave, free pizza and children’s activities including painting, bracelet-making and other art projects — all at the BWG Leisure Centre, 471 West Park Ave., from noon to 2 p.m. on June 22.
The price of admission is just a non-perishable food item from each participant in support of Bradford’s Helping Hand Food Bank.
Duhaney, who is also the council liaison to the food bank, said she was inspired to host the event by a phrase in the African philosophy of Ubuntu which says “I am because we are.”
“It highlights the idea that we are all connected, and our individual well-being is tied to the well-being of others,” she said. “When we work together as a community, amazing things can happen.”
In addition to being “a beloved activity” for local youth, basketball is also one of Duhaney’s favourite sports, and she’s hoping the event will help guests feel “the power of unity,” and motivate them to “pursue their dreams and aspirations.”
“Together, we can champion initiatives that will help fight food insecurity in our community,” she said.
It’s a struggle with which the councillor said she is all too familiar.
“As a child growing up in Jamaica, there were times when my family didn't know where our next meal was coming from,” she said. “Despite these challenges, my family was grateful for whatever we had.”
Now, Duhaney is not only thankful for her “humble beginnings,” but also grateful to have the opportunity to help others.
While individuals are welcome to drop-in to be grouped with others in the tournament, those interested in organizing their own groups of three are encouraged to register ahead of time using this website.
For more information about the event, email [email protected].
Further details about the food bank and how it has been supporting the community since 1991 can be found at bradfordfoodbank.ca.
