A famous annual fundraising tradition is back this year on Sunday, February 12, after a two year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The last full-fledged Sweetheart Brunch took place in February 2020, just one month before the pandemic shutdowns began. The popular event typically draws in over 1,000 people. Sunday’s event runs from 8:30 am-12:30 pm at the North Grenville Municipal Centre.
“We’re very excited and pleased to be back,” said Sweetheart Brunch Chair, Jean LeClair. Even though the Brunch was not able to run in 2021 and 2022 due to COVID-19 concerns, many of the event’s sponsors continued to offer their financial support. The event therefore ran “in spirit” for these two hiatus years, with supporters able to provide a donation online.
Jean was eager to offer a word of thanks to the dedicated sponsors who have continued to support the brunch throughout the years. He also noted that new sponsors are always welcome. Anyone wishing to donate can email council[email protected] Jean also noted that the takeout procedures of the event have changed to make it more accessible.
“We are sensitive to the fact that it’s February, it’s flu season,” said Jean. “There are probably a number of people who are still nervous about being in a crowd, and they might enjoy supporting this.” The Brunch will be set up to handle takeout orders in a better way than in previous years. In order to be efficient, all takeout orders will be packed only with scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, ham, and beans. Jean noted that one of the reasons for this is that people who want takeout likely don’t want to be standing around in a crowd for a long time waiting to be served.
People typically enjoy the social aspect of the Sweetheart Brunch. It’s an opportunity to interact with others in the community and catch up on local happenings. The purpose of the event also makes it easy to support – the money raised is donated back to various community groups.
The Sweetheart Brunch is a tradition that started over two decades ago. It was originally held at the Holy Cross Church, but as the event grew, larger venues were sought. These included the Holy Cross School gymnasium, St. Michael’s Catholic High School, and finally, the North Grenville Municipal Centre where the event is now held. Like most events of its magnitude, the Sweetheart Brunch was built from the ground up into what it is today.
The sit down meal at the Brunch is a hearty meal, including ham, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, beans, toast, fruit, cheese, croissants, muffins, juice, coffee, and tea. The cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children over 6, and children under 6 eat free. Come out and support a great cause!
