People lined up on Saturday to stock up on homemade jams while helping Grace United Church preserve its budget for crucial repairs.
The annual spring jam sale raised funds through preserves crafted by volunteers David Greaves and Heinz Probst, with proceeds going to a “berry” good cause: A new roof and boiler.
“It’s a 170-year-old building. Things wear out. The roof is nearly 20 years old, and boilers don’t last forever,” said Pauline Miller, Grace United’s council chair.
The sale coincided with NOTL’s Easter weekend festivities, drawing steady foot traffic.
Customers scooped up jams, sugar-reduced spreads, squash soup, and Greaves’ famed Seville orange marmalade, with empty jars donated for future batches.
“We have lots of repeat customers—people know our jams and keep coming back,” said Miller.
The event typically nets over $1,000, which is vital for maintaining the heritage building amid a sticky situation of declining Sunday attendance.
“Since COVID, many churches have seen declines, but we’re gaining new members too,” said Miller.
Miller emphasized the church’s role beyond worship, such as hosting community events like a Labour Day festival market and December’s Rotary Holiday House Tour lunch.
Upcoming plans for the church include hosting Music Niagara concerts, whose proceeds will help support the church’s budgetary needs.
Grace United is also planning its Jolly June Jamboree to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the United Church of Canada, founded in 1925. More details will be provided in the coming months.
