One might think a retail cannabis shop might be celebrating today (Oct. 17), the fact that recreational marijuana was legalized in Canada on this date last year, but Grasshopper Retail Inc. was doing something more fulfilling.
PrinceGeorgeMatters went with Owner/Director Joe Postnikoff, Owner/Director Derrick Przysieny and Owner/President Sandy Przysieny as they delivered close to 100 care package bags to the homeless on downtown streets with the help of local businesses.
The packages included toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss donated by Lakewood Dental from Dr. Kit Wong and Dr. Jusin Wong, freshly made sandwiches from the Black Clover and toques, gloves, socks, bottles of water and granola bars supplied by Grasshopper.
Grasshopper Retail Inc. headed into the community to deliver close to 100 care packages to the less fortunate on the streets. (via Grasshopper Retail Inc.)"One of the promises we made to the City of Prince George when we presented at city council in April 2019 was that we wanted to be involved in the community and give back," Postnikoff told PrinceGeorgeMatters. "Since opening on July 11, we’ve committed to this by doing multiple donations like offering gift baskets to different charity organizations for silent auctions and giving monetary donations to different initiatives that align with our mission, vision and values."
It wasn't hard to see how such a simple gesture meant to the less fortunate with many smiling from ear to ear, thanking all three Grasshopper owners repeatedly, excited to have warm, clean socks and food.
"We’re very fortunate to be able to do initiatives like this," Postnikoff added. "It’s because of our amazing staff and customers that keep us in business and allow us to do our part in helping the less fortunate. Everyone today was very appreciative when receiving their care packages and we’re hoping some of the items donated today will help keep those in need just that much warmer over the winter."
The trio also stopped at the Central Interior Native Health Society to deliver some bags to patients in need and when presenting them to the reception desk, the looks on their faces said it all, with Postnikoff adding that these types of organizations are crucial to Prince George.
"These societies and clinics are so essential for people on the path to recovery," he said. "We appreciate all of the staff who work there to try and better the lives of so many so today was our small way of helping them out by offering a free meal, some warm clothes and some hygiene essentials."
It was the same kind of reaction during a stop at the St. Vincent de Paul Society, with many in awe that people care enough to come down and provide care packages with essentials the fortunate might take for granted.
A simple task and gesture can mean the world to others.
