Ponpon Gives Back

Community pools resources to help fire victims

The Martel family of rue de la Terrasse lost everything in a house fire over the Easter holiday. Out of town at the time of the fire, the family was devastated to receive a phone call from a neighbour saying the house was burning, their two dogs were trapped inside and emergency services had been called but were delayed because they were sent to the wrong address, across town.

The family of four has received an outpouring of support from Aylmerites.  Ponpon Daycare, known for its community involvement, has launched another assistance campaign in line with previous #PonponGivesBack projects. “Thankfully, it doesn’t happen often,” Kenny Joyce told the Bulletin. Ms Joyce is co-owner of Ponpon Daycare and the force of nature behind #PonponGivesBack. “We don’t realize how much money and effort is involved in rebuilding a home. They lost everything; think about the costs of the kitchen spices, the bathroom cupboards, all the linen – everything is so costly.”

Aylmer businesses on board

To raise cash for the Martels, Ms. Joyce has gathered donations from local businesses to be raffled in a “Mystery Box”. The donations are certificates and cash from local businesses. All of the donations are put into a box, which is being held at Ponpon Daycare and will go to one person from the public who purchases a $10 ticket – although any sale amount above $10 is graciously accepted. The raffle winner takes home the whole box. Sales of these tickets opened on April 1 and will close on April 8, and they can be purchased at the daycare centre on Front Street, among other sponsor locations within Aylmer. All money collected from the sales of tickets will be given to the Martel Family to help them rebuild. Donations to the #ponpongivesback intiative in support of the Martel Family include donations to the “box” and the family directly and so far, exceed a $5,000 value. Information: 819 684-6222