The COVID-19 pandemic isn’t stopping a group of local kids from doing what they love while supporting a good cause.
Tanner Greenwood, 10, Carter Perreault, 11, Cole Perreault, 10, and Oliver Sawatzky, 12, make up the band Seven Days Past. Every day since Monday, three of the band members have been gathering — at a safe distance from one another — at the end of Tanner’s driveway in Ramara to play live music. Oliver hasn’t been able to join because he lives in Orillia.
“Tanner is a very social kid, so he said, ‘I’m just going to go play my guitar,’ and he went to the end of the driveway and started playing,” said his dad, Todd Greenwood. “People were driving by, honking, stopping and giving money.”
That’s when Todd asked the boys if they’d be interested in donating the money, and he suggested The Sharing Place Food Centre as a recipient.
“Right away, they were in. I didn’t need to coax them,” Todd said. “It’s really nice to see because they’re thinking of others. They were on board immediately.”
Tanner was more than happy to help out those in need during a particularly difficult time.
“People can’t really afford food. We knew we had to do something because people need food,” said the young rhythm guitarist. “Everyone matters.”
They have already raised almost $200, and the goal is to reach $300 by the end of the weekend. Depending on the weather, they plan to be out at the end of Tanner’s driveway on Orkney Beach Road, performing from about 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Seven Days Past likes to play rock and punk rock, Tanner explained. Those who stop by might be able to hear their renditions of popular songs from bands like Green Day, Weezer and Foo Fighters.
So far, the response from passersby has been heartening, Tanner said.
“They said, ‘You guys are doing something really good,’ and they’re clapping for us.”
They’re hoping for more applause — and more money for The Sharing Place — this weekend.
Todd hopes people will stop by to support them in their effort.
“They’re not just sitting around, playing video games (during the pandemic),” he said. “They’re out doing something positive for the community.”
