Michael Dillane, of Minden, has raised $200 in bracelet sales, which he has donated to the Minden Community Food Centre and Heat Bank Haliburton County. “This makes me feel good, because I know I’m helping someone,” he said. /Photo submitted by Robin Dillane By Sue Tiffin
Michael Dillane has been spreading joy this season.
The eight-year-old Minden resident, son of Robin and Rob Dillane, wanted to do something to help others in the community.
“I wanted to have a lemonade stand to raise funds but because of COVID, we brainstormed a new idea with friends and the bracelet idea came up,” Michael told the Times. “My mom’s friend cuts out the bracelet plates, then my mom and I make the bracelet bands and package them.”
Michael planned to sell the bracelets – with designs that say brave, smile, loved, be fearless or be kind – for $5 each.
“When my mom posted them in [a holiday market] group on Facebook, and I had some sales right away, I thought, I can do this,” said Michael.
He was right – not long after, he had raised more than $200, which he split between the Minden Community Food Centre and Heat Bank Haliburton County.
“I talked about different ways that I could help the community with the funds raised,” he said. “The food bank and heat bank are really needed to help people in our community and I like to help people.”
The project is one that Michael can see continuing.
“I think the response has been good,” he said. “I would like to continue to make bracelets and might think of new ideas throughout the year. To keep supporting the community.”
So far, Michael is pleased with the results of his efforts.
“This makes me feel good, because I know I’m helping someone,” he said.
Email chipbeandesigns@gmail.com for more information.
