S’Aints Raise Record $123,000 to Combat Hunger in Windsor-Essex

A remarkable total of $123,000 was raised through last month’s Sleighing Hunger concerts, aimed at supporting food banks across Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent. This record-setting amount was announced during a cheque presentation held on December 22, 2025, at the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts. The funds were generated from two sold-out performances by The S’Aints at the Chrysler Theatre on December 20 and 21.

The annual holiday concerts, organized in partnership with St. Clair College, St. Clair Alumni, and LiUNA 625, achieved the highest fundraising total in the event’s 15-year history. Speaking at the presentation, Michael Silvaggi, President of St. Clair College, emphasized the ongoing nature of food insecurity. “Hunger is not just a holiday concern — it is a year-round challenge,” he stated. “The festive season inspires giving, but the need continues long after the lights and décor are put away. This initiative serves as a reminder that generosity should not be seasonal.”

Since the inception of the concert series, The S’Aints have raised over $700,000 for local food banks and community programs. Drummer Jeff Burrows reflected on the significance of returning to the Chrysler Theatre, the venue of the inaugural Sleighing Hunger show, saying, “It’s a strange position to be able to do something you love, and it turns into something that gives back. We feel truly blessed to be part of a family that gives back to the community.”

Representatives from various recipient organizations attended the cheque presentation, including the Windsor Essex Food Bank Association and Chatham Outreach for Hunger. June Muir, President of the Windsor Essex Food Bank Association, highlighted how the donation will address the increasing demand for food assistance. “Sleighing Hunger is about more than music. It’s about community, compassion, and a group of performers who donate their time and talent to raise money for food insecurity,” Muir explained. She noted that one in four Ontarians using food banks has employment, and of the 235,000 individuals who accessed the Windsor Essex Food Bank Association last year, 30 percent were children.

The situation in Chatham-Kent is similarly urgent. Brenda LeClair, Executive Director of Chatham Outreach for Hunger, reported a 20 percent increase in demand for their services in 2025. “We’re able to continue to meet that need because of the generosity of those who volunteer, run food drives, and raise money,” LeClair stated. “To The S’Aints: You are not just a band who performs and raises money — you are our family.”

The funds raised through the 2025 concerts will provide essential support to food banks throughout the winter and into the coming year, addressing the critical issue of food insecurity in the region. This successful initiative not only showcases the power of community involvement but also reinforces the message that the spirit of giving extends beyond the holiday season.