Volunteers with the Windsor Goodfellows have returned to streets and intersections across the region, marking the start of the charity's 115th annual newspaper drive. This beloved tradition, which began on Thursday, November 27, 2025, sees approximately 400 dedicated volunteers distributing special-edition newspapers in Windsor, Tecumseh, and LaSalle in exchange for public donations.
A Century-Long Partnership for Good
The campaign is supported by a long-standing partnership with the Windsor Star, which began in 1914. The Goodfellows organization has expressed its heartfelt gratitude for the newspaper's unwavering support, noting it is the largest and longest-standing contributor to the annual initiative. This collaboration has been instrumental in sustaining the drive for over a century.
Fundraising Goals and How to Give
The Goodfellows have set an ambitious fundraising target of $375,000 for this year's campaign, which runs through Saturday. This goal follows a successful 2024 drive that raised $366,000, bolstered by contributions from the Tecumseh Goodfellows, local businesses, and anonymous donors.
All proceeds are critical for filling the organization's Christmas hampers and supporting other year-round programs, including a food bank.
To make donating easier, the Goodfellows have introduced several methods:
- Donations can be made directly to volunteers at intersections throughout the Windsor area until Saturday.
- New tap-to-donate terminals are available for cashless donations at Walmart locations in Windsor and Zehrs stores in LaSalle and Tecumseh.
- Contributions can be dropped off 24 hours a day at the Goodfellows' downtown headquarters at 401 Park St. W. The organization is also open for in-person support on Tuesdays and Fridays.
The Volunteers Behind the Cause
The heart of the drive is its volunteers, like Phong Nguy, George Baribeau, Chris Sisson, Bob Papineau, Pat Costello, Sean Costello, and Mike Stoughton, who brave the late-November weather to collect donations. Their efforts ensure that the Windsor Goodfellows can continue their vital work supporting individuals and families in need throughout the community.
