Community Care Under Closed Doors
On Christmas Day, when most businesses in Squamish were quiet and closed, a local grocery store chose to keep its spirit of giving alive. Stong’s Market, a staple in the coastal town, announced that even though doors would be shut for the holiday, the store would still act in service to the community. Store manager Devon Crane explained that the aim was simple: ensure that people in need wouldn’t go hungry or unassisted simply because it was a holiday.
Turning Closure into Charity
Rather than letting the day pass in quiet reflection alone, the team at Stong’s Market launched a fundraising initiative designed to support residents facing food insecurity. The plan centered on community generosity and local partnerships, transforming a routine Christmas Day into a day of giving. Donations were welcomed through online options and a coordinated drive coordinated by the store in the days leading up to December 25, with funds earmarked to purchase groceries for families and individuals who could use a helping hand during the holidays.
How the Plan Worked
With the store physically closed, the team leveraged digital platforms and partnerships with local charities to maximize impact. Donors could contribute via a dedicated online page, while volunteers and partner organizations helped identify families in need and coordinate the distribution of grocery items. The funds raised were used to stock essential foods, warm meals, and holiday treats—items that often become scarce for those managing tight budgets around festive seasons.
Devon Crane’s Vision for the Community
Crane underscored that the project wasn’t about a one-day gesture but about sustaining care for neighbors long after the holiday has passed. “We wanted to make sure the community was taken care of even though we were closed,” he said. His words reflected a broader belief in local businesses taking an active role in social welfare beyond the checkout lane. The initiative also highlighted the store’s history of community involvement, reinforcing trust between retailers and residents who rely on them during tough times.
Impact on Families and Neighbors
Local residents who benefited from the fundraiser reported relief and gratitude. For many families, the funds translated into baskets of groceries that could stretch through the week, reducing stress during a period when budgets are often stretched thin. Community volunteers noted that the project brought neighbors together, strengthening a network of mutual support that can endure beyond the holiday season.
Looking Forward: A Model for Other Communities
What began as a closed-store event evolved into a blueprint for how a business can reframe a holiday closure into something more meaningful for its community. By aligning charitable giving with operational realities, Stong’s Market demonstrated that Christmas Day could be a catalyst for generosity rather than a day of inactivity. Local leaders and residents are now discussing how similar efforts could be scaled or replicated in nearby towns, inspiring other retailers to consider charitable actions that align with their capabilities and community needs.
How You Can Help
Even after Christmas, the momentum from this effort continues. Residents interested in supporting local food security can donate to the ongoing fund through the store’s official channels or connect with Squamish-area charities that provide food assistance. Community involvement remains a cornerstone of Squamish’s resilience, and stories like this remind everyone that giving comes in many forms—time, money, and a willingness to look out for one another.
