The generosity of Cochranites has helped Home Treasures set a new record in donating to worthy local causes.

The nonprofit second-hand provided $286,804 to local charities and initiatives in 2023 while hosting some new events of their own.

Home Treasures manager Cayley Breeze says they are proud of what they accomplished and says it couldn't happen without community support.

"For us to do this, it's so symbiotic and we always need the support of the community to donate their items so we can sell them and make keep making this stuff happen," says Breeze.

"We have more people shopping in the store, Cochrane is growing, and we have more people donating furniture and home goods, which is directly reflected in the amount we can return to the community."

Over 40 groups and causes were supported by Home Treasures.

Cheryl DeMaere Ellis, of Christmas Elves for Seniors, was among those thrilled by the support they received from Home Treasures. Home Treasures surprised the organization with a $1,725 donation.

"We just want to fill those holes in assisting other groups and associations, charities, and initiatives," says Breeze. "In that case, making sure every senior got a present that was on the list, and it goes to create community."

Home Treasures list

They also introduced of free movie nights in collaboration with Cochrane Movie House, free swimming, skating and a Movie Night in Mitford Park.

"Cochrane, Home Treasures tries to do things that help the community, brings it closer together, and gives people opportunities to do things that they might not necessarily have the funds to do," she says, "Because as our mission statement states, 'Everybody Deserves the Nice and the Necessary,' so, it's nice for people to be able to get out, have a mental health break, and go and see a movie or do something with the family."

They also continued their Annual Kids Christmas Shopping Event, where local youth can pick five gifts for a $5 donation. This year, they had 285 kids register and the funds raised were donated to the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.

"It's such a beloved event and we definitely get a lot of just people remembering their kids doing it and people expressing how much their kids love doing it."

Breeze says to stayed tuned for when they roll out their special events for 2024.