Beer store customers across Ontario have been doing their part to help since the pandemic began back in March.

The Beer Store announced on March 17, 2020 customers could choose to donate the proceeds of their empty bottle returns to health care centres and food banks throughout the province.

The donations raised $20,776 in Prince Edward County, from the Picton store, and will benefit the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation.

“Donations like this ensures we can provide the 40,000 patients seen at Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital each year with the best care possible. The staff and customers at the Beer Store have demonstrated their commitment to keeping our hospital well equipped for everyone who lives in or visits our community,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation.

Each returnable container is worth either $0.10 or $0.20 depending on the size. The Beer Store is thankful to the amazing charitable organizations, like the PECMH Foundation, who are helping the community navigate through the ever-evolving COVID-19 situation. One hundred per cent of all donations made in Ontario went towards local hospitals and food banks to provide support during this vital time.

“We wanted to raise funds that we could keep in our community, especially during these uncertain times,” said local Beer Store Manager, Ryan Weirsma. “We would like to thank all of our customers for their dedication to our County hospital. They have shown us that we are all in this together.

Over $2.3 million has been raised throughout Ontario from this initiative.

"We thank the people of Ontario for their incredible generosity. To donate their returns in such large numbers clearly demonstrates how much they want to show their support for people working at local Health Centres and Foodbanks," said Beer Store President Ted Moroz.