Open Doors accepts a cheque for $10,000 from Burlington Helping Burlington

By Gazette Staff

October 28th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

Open Doors celebrated its annual Harvest Fest last week at Paradiso Restaurant in downtown Burlington, bringing together friends, community partners, and supporters for a night filled with great food, connection, and purpose. The sold-out event raised vital funds to support local families through Open Doors’ community meals, clothing support, children’s programming, and wrap-around resources.

One of the evening’s most meaningful moments came when Burlington Helping Burlington presented a $10,000 cheque — a generous grant that will directly support Open Doors’ mission of reducing food insecurity and helping neighbours thrive.

Rev. Canon Dr. Penny Anderson & Shannon Shuell of Open Doors – Julie Neal & Michael Desjardins of Burlington Helping Burlington.

“We are incredibly grateful for this contribution,” said Shannon Shuell, of Open Doors. “This grant will help us continue offering healthy meals, essential supports, and a welcoming space to hundreds of individuals and families each week. It represents the power of community coming together — Burlington helping Burlington — and that is truly what Open Doors is all about.”

Last year alone, Open Doors served thousands of fresh, nutritious meals and distributed essential items — including clothing, household goods, and back-to-school resources — ensuring that families facing significant challenges weren’t doing so alone. With the cost of living continuing to rise, the demand for these services has grown dramatically.

Harvest Fest guests enjoyed an evening to remember — a celebration of generosity and the belief that everyone deserves to thrive. The funds raised will make a direct impact on those who rely on Open Doors as a source of nourishment, security, and community connection.

Open Doors extends heartfelt thanks to Paradiso Restaurant for hosting, to Burlington Helping Burlington for its incredible support, and to all attendees and donors who help make this work possible.