(Above) Lt Yves Bolduc, CO, The Salvation Army Ministries—Quebec City, receives a cheque from Jean Gaudreau; François Petit, owner of Portofino; and Guylaine Gignac, member of the Rotary Club

The Salvation Army Ministries—Quebec City experienced a significant blow over the Christmas season, as thieves broke in on December 24, stealing between $3,000 and $5,000—funds that were intended to help people in need.

In response, the local community showed great generosity to the Army as people offered donations, large and small. The restaurant Portofino held a month-long fundraiser, donating $5 for every reservation made in the name of The Salvation Army in January. As well, local artist Jean Gaudreau donated a painting to the Army, which was put up for auction online. The painting, titled Personne n’est à l’abri (No one is immune), raised $3,245.

Portofino’s fundraiser and Jean Gaudreau’s auction, along with a donation from the Quebec City Rotary Club, raised a whopping $10,492.50, which was presented to the Army in February.