WHITEWATER REGION (Cobden) — The third annual Big Give was held on Saturday at the Cobden Astrolabe Arena. The free garage sale drew a crowd of over 250 people, well before the front doors opened at 9:00 a.m.
Hosted by the Churches of Cobden, Joyfully Noisy entertained the lineup which reached the Agricultural Hall and still saw people entering the garage sale at 9:09 a.m.
Before the last of the guests entered the building, the parking lot began filling up with people running treasures to their trucks, cars and moving vans. The majority would turn around and reenter the arena to look for more goodies.
Grandparents were helping their grandchildren carry their finds and one father was seen with a baby in one arm and a set of golf clubs in another. Firetrucks for grandchildren who could not attend, camping equipment, rollerblades, holiday decorations, kitchen items and furniture were just a few of the items seen leaving the parking lot to go to their new homes.
A free BBQ was offered with hot dogs and drinks, along with items which were donated by the churches and community members. There was a free drop off for the recycling of electronics and a kid’s fun fair, which included inflatables. The Whitewater Region Fire Department was also in attendance and handed out free gift bags during the event.
Over 20 volunteers were identified with their name tags and were seen setting up the event and making sure everyone got what they wanted once it began. They were seen connecting with people who were looking for certain items in a kind fashion.
Every year, churches across the country participate in the Big Give, which is a free and unified day of giving for neighbourhoods. Across Canada, 137 churches took part in the Big Give this year. The next Big Give will be held on June 6, 2020.
