The weather held off to allow 226 kids to embark on an Easter egg hunt through Victoria Park on Saturday morning.
After being unable to safely host the event for several years, three women in the West Galt Neighbours Facebook group, led by Elyse Bouwmeester, decided it was time to bring back the holiday tradition.
“We’re hoping to connect everyone, build new friendships and plan more fun activities for all of the kids of west Galt,” Bouwmeester said.
“I think community involvement is so important and we want to teach our kids about being a good neighbour.”
Being a good neighbour was what the day was all about. Aside from hunting for eggs, the group was also collecting food donations for 519 Community Collective.
“One of the mothers involved volunteers twice a week there and suggested it,” Bouwmeester said.
“We thought this was a fabulous idea and wanted to incorporate a charity into this event. This charity is in need of support and we wanted to help.”
Bouwmeester hopes the community remembers that holidays are celebrated by many, but it can also be a tough time for some.
“We have people right here in Cambridge who need our help and as a group we have the ability to help one another,” she said.
“It's our duty. Every child deserves an Easter egg hunt and every family deserves a warm meal.
Each kid in attendance received a free treat bag thanks to the generosity of Vibrant Realty Group, Shaffer & Shaffer Law, Krista Hogg mortgages and Real Property Management.
No matter how many eggs were found, Bouwmeester hopes families walked away with a smile on their face and feeling more connected to their community.
“I remember being so excited on Easter morning and I remember the joy,” she said.
“I just love to host and plan events, watching people come together and just enjoy one another's company brings a huge smile to my face.”
