North of 60

(posted: April 2026)

North of 60


Committee Members:
Michael Wasney, St Patrick’s Conference, Markham
George Quesnell, St. Elizabeth Seton Conference Newmarket
Margeret LaFontaine, St Gabriel’s Conference, Burlington
Maria Scattolon, Hamilton -Hamilton West Particular Councils
Josie Rocca, St Catharine’s Central Council
Pegg Leroux, Kitchener -Waterloo Particular Council & chair

Mandate:
  • To provide food and other requested necessities to the families across Nunavut
  • To continue our relationship with Nunavut Community leaders in our combined effort to relieve hardships faced from food and job insecurity.
  • To continue our partnership with the Kivalliq Inuit Association to ensure marine crossing security
  • To continue all efforts to find sustainable and new support in Ontario to support Nunavut communities

Accomplishments in 2025
  • Six (6) communities supported with sea containers filled by Conferences/Councils donations.
  • Three (3) communities received crates of food supported from generous pass ups from Conferences/Councils across Ontario
  • Continued support of cost reductions given from the logistic teams used to carry our gift of food to Nunavut
  • Continued co-sharing to fill a sea container by Markham and Newmarket.


Focus for 2026
  • To reach out to Nunavut Communities, still in the hope of receiving support, to know that we understand their request and this will be accomplished with new supporters from Ontario Vincentians.
  • To remain connected with all current Vincentian benefactors for the project
  • To seek new support from Conference and Councils for Nunavut

Challenges for 2026
Transportation costs are always increasing. Transportation is the pivotal piece in the families receiving the food - food must arrive! The team always hopes to find sustainable support to keep the project moving.
Food Donations - some conferences have seen a huge reduction in the donations deeply needed. Many of us are experiencing challenges to provide for our own - Vincentians always do their best
Manpower - the journey to fill a sea can is a task, yet the more hands and feet to help percolates fun and laughter.

Challenge Solutions
Regular communication from each team with their members and parish members.
Regular newsletter sent out by the chair to Conference/Council Presidents
Being invited to speak at your meeting sharing facts on Nunavut and the project with your conference/council


Chair North of 60 Committee
Peggy Leroux
north.of.60@ssvp.on.ca