Helping Shriners help children
Annual event at Arlington Orchards raises money for children’s hospitals
It’s an annual tradition for Paul and Erika Young and their two young daughters. Each year, the family makes their way to Arlington Orchards for its Island Scarecrow Festival, an event run by the Shriners.
“Our two girls, Mila and Brielle, both had services at the IWK, something that was made possible by the Shriners,” said Paul. “We come every year for the apples and the fundraiser. A family-oriented day of activities seems right up their alley,” added Erika. For 11 years, the Red Oak Shrine Club in Kensington has set up the scarecrow festival in an effort to raise money for Shriners Children’s Hospitals across North America, with its support primarily to Montreal’s Shriners Children’s Hospital. Elmer Newson has been a Shriner for 32 years. “We try to make it as family oriented and as affordable as possible,” said Newson.
“You can treat the kids without breaking the bank.” Barry Balsom, owner of Arlington Orchards, said hosting the festival is an opportunity to educate people about Shriners and the work that they do. “They’re more than men driving around in fun little cars and motorbikes,” said Balsom. “It is great to have a smooth flow of people coming in having a happy and safe experience, and seeing the Shriners do well makes you feel good.” He added the event, which includes apple picking, face painting, pumpkin, pony rides and the scarecrow contest, is a way to bring families together and raise money.
“The Shriners ensure that kids get the help they need, and that requires money, so having this festival is a way to contribute.”
On average, the festival brings in around $4,000 each year.
“We’re all volunteers here. We don’t see any of it, and that’s the way it should be,” said Newson. “Seeing the kids excited to come into the orchard and knowing it is going to help others is the best part.”