A Cherished Collingwood Tradition Concludes

There are some traditions, aren't there? The ones that just become part of the very fabric of a community, deeply woven into its rhythm, especially around the holidays. For folks in Collingwood, Ontario, for over four decades, one of those truly special traditions was the annual free Christmas turkey giveaway, spearheaded by the incredibly generous Nick Brindisi, the former owner of the local Foodland.

But alas, as all things do, this particular chapter has now come to a quiet, somewhat bittersweet close. After more than 40 years of making sure hundreds of families—sometimes even up to 400 or more, can you imagine?—had a festive centrepiece for their Christmas dinner, the tradition has ended. Nick has sold his beloved Foodland store, and with the change in ownership comes a change in this deeply cherished community service.

You know, it wasn't just about a free turkey. It was about peace of mind. It was about dignity. It was about knowing that in a time often filled with financial strain for many, especially during the festive season, there was one less thing to worry about. Nick, a true local legend in many respects, took it upon himself to personally fund these turkeys, year after year, out of sheer goodwill and a genuine desire to give back to the town he called home and where he built his business.

The new owner, facing the undeniable realities of today's market, including the rather steep and ever-rising cost of turkeys—which, let's be frank, have become quite an expense—has decided not to continue the initiative. And while that's understandable from a business perspective, it undeniably leaves a significant void in the community. It's a real shift, and I think many are feeling it keenly, especially as we head into the holiday season.

For Nick himself, it was clearly more than just a promotional stunt or a simple act of charity; it was a passion project, a part of who he was. He always wanted to ensure everyone had a happy Christmas, and that simple desire fueled this remarkable, long-standing gesture. The stories, the gratitude from families over the years – they speak volumes about the profound impact of his kindness.

So, as Collingwood moves forward, this holiday season will certainly feel a little different for some. While the specific tradition of the free Foodland turkeys might be over, the legacy of Nick Brindisi's incredible generosity, his spirit of giving, and the warmth he brought to countless Christmases will undoubtedly continue to resonate throughout the community for years to come. It’s a powerful reminder of how one person, truly, can make such a tremendous difference.