More than $40,000 was raised from two big events at the fourth annual Savour Cowichan Festival.
Joining Vancouver Canucks’ alumni, Kirk McLean and Jyrki Lumme, Valley residents flocked to a floating barge at Mill Bay both nights, enjoying local food and beverages and raising money to support the Canucks Autism Network (CAN) initiatives in the Cowichan Valley for individuals and families living with autism.
Programs funded include multisport and bike day camps, a multi-week learn to skate program and an overnight hockey training camp.
CAN family events will also be hosted in Duncan and Shawnigan Lake throughout the year as a means to bring families living with autism together in safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environments.
In recent years, Savour Cowichan has raised more than $100,000 for the Canucks Autism Network, while also generating awareness about the wine and culinary profile of the Cowichan Valley.
“We are incredibly humbled by the ongoing support of the Cowichan Valley community and everyone involved in the Savour Cowichan Festival,” CAN’s Noah Morantz said. “The success of the festival and its marquee events has empowered us to increase our offerings in the local region while welcoming new families living with autism.”