UPDATE: With bad weather looming, Helping Hands postpones annual barbecue

UPDATE: Aug. 9, 2024

Due to rain and high winds in the forecast, Helping Hands Sault Ste. Marie has decided to postpone its barbecue and yard sale event, originally scheduled for Saturday Aug. 10

The event will now take place on Saturday Aug. 24, 2024.

"The decision to reschedule comes after our BBQ partner advised us that the weather conditions could negatively impact the safety and enjoyment of attendees," said board member John Korab in a news release. "As this is a 100% outdoor event with no indoor accommodations, we believe it is in the best interest of everyone involved to move the date."

The rescheduled event will still feature all the same planned activities, including the barbecue, yard sale and more.

"We invite everyone to join us on the new date and continue supporting our efforts to help those in need within our community," the news release states.

ORIGINAL STORY: Aug. 7, 2024

Helping Hands will be hosting its annual BBQ and Yard Sale this weekend.

The event, scheduled for Aug. 10, will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is a fundraiser for the non-profit organization.

Full details are including in the following release issued by Helping Hands:

Sault Ste. Marie Helping Hands is excited to announce its Annual BBQ and Yard Sale on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 346 Wellington Street West. This event aims to raise crucial funds for the organization's ongoing support programs while giving back to the community.

Attendees will enjoy a free community BBQ featuring hot dogs and hamburgers, served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event also includes a giant yard sale offering a variety of new or nearly new items, promising fantastic bargains for everyone from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Balloon Lady will be on hand entertaining kids with balloon animals.

Helping Hands is a 100 per cent volunteer-run non-profit charitable group dedicated to providing essential clothing , household items and basic needs to the community. The organization supports newcomers, Indigenous people, low-income families, and individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. With over 100 volunteers, many of whom are new Canadians, Helping Hands plays a vital role in fostering community connections and support.

“We are so excited to host this annual BBQ and yard sale," says Michelle Nolan, a newly appointed board member of Helping Hands (middel in supplied photo). "It's a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy great food, and find fantastic bargains, all while supporting a cause that directly benefits so many in Sault Ste. Marie.”

“Our annual BBQ and yard sale is also critical for raising funds to cover our substantial rental costs, says Helping Hands President Robert Peace.  This event is more than just a fundraiser; it's a celebration of our community's spirit and resilience. It’s always heartwarming to see so many people come together to support each other. We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our supporters who donate all year round.”

Helping Hands relies on community contributions and volunteer efforts to maintain its operations and continue making a positive impact. The funds raised from this event will directly support the organization's mission of providing assistance to vulnerable populations in the region.

Join them for a day of food, fun, and fantastic deals at the Helping Hands Annual BBQ and Yard Sale. 

Event details:
Date: Aug. 10, 2024
Time: 10 a.m.– 2 p.m.
Location: 346 Wellington Street West, Sault Ste. Marie
Activities: Free BBQ (11:30 a.m.– 1:30 p.m.), Yard Sale, Balloon Animals by the Balloon Lady