Young Strathmore resident aims to collect 4,000 cans for veterans

By Melissa Crispin-Piche Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Eleven-year-old Nixon Henshaw and his father Chris are hoping to fill a trailer with soup this fall, continuing a family effort that has grown from about 120 cans in its first year to thousands of donations for veterans in need.

The Strathmore pair are organizing their fourth annual Soup for Soldiers campaign through Sammich Sycles. This year, they have set a goal of collecting 4,000 cans before delivering the donations to the Veterans Food Bank of Calgary on Nov. 10.

For Nixon, the reason behind the campaign is straightforward. 

“It’s just what they did; (they served) to make us (a) free (country) and then I just think it’s a good cause to do it,” he said.

Chris said the campaign is their way of thanking service members past, present and future. While the family did not originate the cause, they have made it an annual tradition of their own.

The first year brought in approximately 120 cans, followed by just under 300 the next year. Last year, with support from customers, family, friends and the Strathmore community, the campaign collected 3,272 cans.

This year the Henshaws are aiming even higher.

“Just 4,000, 5,000 will get a whole trailer loaded,” Chris said when discussing the goal and the amount of soup they hope to collect, he said the number was influenced by it being their fourth year for the campaign, so 4,000 cans for four years.

The campaign was already off to a strong start at the time of the interview with just over 600 cans collected.

Chris said the generosity of residents has been encouraging over the years. Businesses have contributed, but some of the most memorable donations have come from children arriving with just a few cans.

Nixon hopes the campaign will also encourage other young people to get involved in their communities. Asked why youth should take part in efforts like this, he said it is important to be a leader and set an example for those who are younger.

He also hopes the donations will remind veterans that their service is appreciated. If he had the opportunity to speak with a veteran about the campaign, Nixon said he would thank them for serving.

The family is keeping the collection process simple. Donations can be dropped off at Sammich Sycles, 79 A Slater RD or Chris can arrange to pick them up from residents who are unable to make it to the shop.

“They just come to the shop and just bring some soup over,” Nixon said. “Or we can go get it.”

The Henshaws are also planning collection days at Kinsmen Park or near the town office. Dates have not yet been finalized and will be shared through their Facebook page. 

Although soup is the focus of the campaign, Chris said other non-perishable food and useful donations are welcome. The Veterans Food Bank of Calgary also operates a thrift store, and he has previously collected clothing and other items to pass along.

He said the need for support does not end after Remembrance Day or the Christmas season.

“You always think about it Christmas time, but it’s all year long that there’s food insecurity for people,” Chris said.

The family plans to deliver the donations on Nov. 10, the day before Remembrance Day. For Nixon, every contribution matters, regardless of its size.

“Every can we raise is one meal for one veteran,” he said.

Residents who would like to donate can visit Sammich Sycles or contact the shop at 403-901-4998. Chris can also be reached at 403-901-8069 to arrange pickup. Updates on collection dates and campaign progress will be posted on the family’s Facebook page.

Those who are unable to donate can still help by sharing the campaign with others. The Henshaws’ hope the community will once again come together to show veterans that their service has not been forgotten.