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Friday August 21, 2026

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The 4th Annual Lemonade Stand for Hope

By Carolyn Phillips

On a day that threatened to be overshadowed by cooler, drizzly weather, the warm spirit of community shone brightly at the fourth annual Lemonade Stand for Hope. Organized by the dynamic Chimo Lemonade Ladies, this cherished event took place on Saturday, August 15, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM in the welcoming setting of the Westoba parking lot. With vibrant colours and the laughter of families, the event transformed the dreary weather into an opportunity for unity and support toward a vital cause: raising funds for CancerCare Manitoba.

The aroma of freshly baked treats filled the air as attendees arrived, ready to indulge in delicious cold lemonade and an assortment of baked goods. The enthusiastic volunteers serving lemonade wore their iconic bright yellow shirts, offering cups of refreshing lemonade that promised to be the highlight of the day. As in previous years, this event not only quenched thirsts but also fostered a sense of community dedication and compassion.

Local artisans and bakers took centre stage by showcasing their handmade crafts and baked goods, contributing to the eclectic mix of offerings for sale. Every item sold was purposefully chosen, with each purchase directly benefiting CancerCare Manitoba. Whether attendees were savouring a sweet treat or buying a unique gift, they knew their contributions were making a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by cancer.

In addition to the delicious refreshments, the event featured several exciting raffle baskets, each with its own theme designed to resonate with the varied interests of the community. The baskets included:

•Maple Madness: Dive into the quintessential Canadian experience with

maple-themed items including delectable foods, crafts, and more, capturing the essence of homegrown goodness. •Family Fun: Perfectly curated for families, this basket is filled with activities that inspire both indoor and outdoor adventures, ensuring quality time spent together.

•Christmas Comes Early: With craft activities and holiday decor, this basket invites the festive spirit a little earlier, making it a delightful precursor to the holiday season.

•Citrus Celebration: A tribute to all things lemon, this basket contains themed tableware, serviettes, and even a cheerful yellow knitted towel and dishcloth, combining practicality with style.

•Made in Manitoba: Celebrate local talent with a diverse assortment of handcrafted items, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of Manitoba artisans.

As the day wore on, the sense of community and togetherness was palpable. Children laughed, adults engaged in conversation, and new friendships blossomed. The Chimo Lemonade Ladies exemplified dedication through their efforts in organizing this event and their unwavering commitment to promoting hope and healing through charitable initiatives.

In the end, the cooler weather was merely a backdrop for an inspiring day dedicated to giving back. The Lemonade Stand for Hope proved once again that, regardless of the weather, compassion and community spirit can warm the heart. With 100 per cent of the proceeds benefiting CancerCare Manitoba, every sip of lemonade purchased and every raffle ticket bought was a step forward in supporting those affected by cancer. Here’s to another successful year, and we look forward to seeing everyone at next year’s event!