100
The Gurski family’s annual Scare Away Hunger campaign brought the Martensville community together throughout October, combining Halloween fun with a fundraiser to support those in need. This year’s campaign proved to be the family’s most successful yet, raising $1,100 in cash donations and collecting approximately 1,500 pounds of food for the Martensville Food Pantry.
Each October, the Gurski family’s elaborate inflatable display attracts visitors from throughout the area, providing a Halloween experience while encouraging donations of non-perishable food items and cash to support local families facing food insecurity.
This year’s campaign received a wide range of support from residents, local businesses and schools, helping the family achieve a new fundraising milestone.
“Thank you to everyone who stopped by this year and enjoyed our display and shared a kind word. Thank you to everyone who made a food or cash donation,” said Ron Gurski. “This was our best year to date for donations.”
Valley Manor, Lake Vista and Venture Heights Schools also participated in the initiative, setting up collection boxes where students, staff and families could contribute food donations throughout the month.
Local businesses played an important role in the campaign’s success, with Gurski expressing appreciation for their generosity and involvement. He extended a special thank you to Ayotte Plumbing and Heating for its generous contribution, as well as Ashley Beherns from Global News, who visited the display and featured it on television. Gurski also acknowledged the Martensville Messenger for helping promote the fundraiser and encourage community participation.
Beyond the incredible donation totals, the family’s Halloween display also celebrated another milestone this year, welcoming a record-breaking 700 trick-or-treaters on Halloween night.
While the campaign has become a popular Halloween tradition, its purpose extends far beyond decorations and entertainment. The donations collected help support the Martensville Food Pantry and the volunteers who work throughout the year to assist individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
“Big thank you to all the amazing volunteers at the Martensville Food Pantry for the amazing work they do,” Gurski said.
With another successful campaign complete, Gurski is already looking ahead to next Halloween and hopes to introduce some new ideas to keep the display exciting for returning visitors.
In the meantime, residents can look forward to another seasonal display, with Gurski planning to have his Christmas decorations set up during the first week of December.
As the community moves into the holiday season, Gurski hopes the success of Scare Away Hunger will serve as a reminder of the importance of helping others, regardless of the size of the contribution.
“Please remember to take a minute and think of others in need. Even the smallest act of kindness and generosity can make a huge difference in someone’s life.”
