Town, Musical Arts Society aid local food bank
By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Wheatland County Food Bank received a $1,500 donation through a partnership between the Strathmore Musical Arts Society (SMAS) and the Town of Strathmore on Nov. 2.
In March 2020, the SMAS had begun arranging to create a music video with several local bands.
The original idea was to showcase the video in concert, but due to restrictions and disruptions presented by COVID-19, the idea was shelved.
Instead, the SMAS partnered with the Town of Strathmore and in exchange for the town’s use of the video “Sounds of the Prairies,” the town would contribute $1,500 to the local food bank.
“The Town of the Strathmore and Strathmore Musical Arts Society have been collaborating by using the Sounds of the Prairies video to support the community and provide entertainment during these challenging times,” said Brooke Quinn, marketing manager with SMAS.
“Due to the fact that we could not have an event for the video, the town and SMAS worked together to help struggling artists and organizations such as the food bank. This not only helps other non-profits and charities, but it also helps residents in Strathmore and area.”
The fundraising concert featuring the Blake Reid Band and Over the Moon, originally scheduled to be held September was delayed due to not being granted proper permissions. The concert was postponed and held instead on Nov. 6, along with a 50/50 draw, with the proceeds going to the Strathmore Overnight Shelter and Wheatland & Area Hospice Society.
“We are local non-profit that loves Strathmore and we believe in supporting other local non-profits and organizations in order to benefit everyone in the community.”
The Strathmore Times reached out to the Wheatland County Food Bank for comment regarding the donation but did not receive a response prior to publication.
Quinn added though she was unable to say accurately how far the donation would go, she estimated it would be a significant boon for the food bank to utilize.
“We think that the $1,500 will have a huge impact for people who have challenged to make ends meet during COVID-19,” said Quinn.