No time like the present to dream big

There is an emphasis on the land in this region: either its bounty by virtue of the produce it affords or its destruction by the encroachment of urban creep.

This newspaper has taken in the recent past a strong and positive stand on the current ‘buy local’ iniative that we believe defines the future economic success and sustainability of the region. We are also aware, however, that such campaigns need significant consumer and corporate buy-in to bridge the huge gap between people’s needs and available funds.

No question folks here are generous. That has been proven time and again, and myriad agencies and individuals have been the primary benefactors. Community is about supporting one another and we endorse any activity that strives to better the lives and circumstances of people in Kings County.

With that in mind, we reference an item sent to The Advertiser by the people at Nova Agri Inc., which is the marketing arm of Dykeview Farms Ltd. They grow fruit, vegetables and field crops in the Valley, from Avonport to Nictaux. They employ hundreds of people, but that detail certainly doesn’t make them unique.

There are many large-scale employers locally, including Transcontinental, but what’s relevant to their presence in this market is a willingness to give something back.

Many people aren’t likely aware that each month the company provides food donations to Feed Nova Scotia that are distributed to food banks. Since 2003, it has used its Between the Bushes restaurant as a venue to raise money for the MS and Alzheimer Societies and they hold an additional event every fall to aid children’s charities as well.

Last year, the fall event supported Brigadoon Children’s Camp and Acadia University’s S.M.I.L.E. program. On Thursday, Oct. 4, they will host the ‘Harvesting Dreams’ Buffet Dinner Fundraiser. Proceeds will be divided equally between the Children’s Wish Foundation and Chrysalis House.

It’s a cliché to say that every little bit helps, but what’s most profound is often uncovered in what’s completely familiar. There is a gap between community needs and available funds and it’s incumbent on all us – citizens as well as corporate entities – to accept the challenge of this reality and make something happen.

Thursday’s event is only one of many throughout the region worthy of note, but if the message isn’t communicated the need remains unaddressed we all lose.

We can’t allow that to happen. Too many require so much and, indeed, every bit does help.

Want to get involved? Call 582-1445 for more information on the Harvesting Dreams initiative.