A few years ago, Joe Cornelisse and his son, like many families in the community, needed the assistance of The Sharing Place Food Centre.
The food bank provides a vital service in the community, serving about 1,700 people a month.
The global pandemic has intensified that need and forced the local organization to shift from a pick-up to a delivery model.
The pandemic also forced The Sharing Place to cancel its popular Mac and Cheese Luncheon - its largest annual fundraiser that brought in about $30,000 each year.
When Cornelisse heard that news, he felt compelled to do what he could to help.
“I had been trying to figure out a way I could help The Sharing Place Food Centre during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, so after looking at myself in the mirror, I decided why not start a fundraiser where when I reach a goal of $1,000 (or more hopefully) I will shave my beard off live on Facebook,” he said.
“I just knew that (cancelling the Mac and Cheese Luncheon) would hit them really hard, so I wanted to do something for them,” said Cornelisse.
He’s dubbed his fundraiser ‘Will Shave for Food.’
And this is no small thing he’s doing. His beard is a big part of his identity.
“I've had this full beard now for over 15 years, and if I'm being described by someone they will say ‘Joe's the big guy with the ‘big beard,’” said Cornelisse. “It's become somewhat of a trademark.”
In fact, his son, Ben, who is 11, has never seen his dad clean-shaven.
“I think he will be the most shocked,” said Cornelisse.
Cornelisse, who notes donations are tax deductible, said he hopes his fundraiser helps the food bank and inspires others to help the much-needed facility.
He said he appreciates how The Sharing Place helped him when he needed it most.
“I've never forgotten that, so this is really just my way of giving back to them,” he said.
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