After residents of the Friends of St-Joseph’s Manor in Campbell’s Bay were unable to attend the Shawville Fair, staff decided to bring the Fair to them.

Staff of St-Joseph’s organized a fair-themed day, in which residents ate classic fair food, such as pizza, cotton candy and of course, Beavertails. The event took place Thursday and included games, a “best dressed” competition and a visit from the 4H club and their animals.

“I just like to see the older people enjoying their time,” said Sheena Tubman, one of the volunteers who handled animals at the event. “They were really excited once they saw the cow on the trailer.”

4H youth showed off chickens, rabbits, goats and a large heifer. Residents got to interact with the different animals throughout the course of the day, something which many referred to as the day’s highlight.

“We couldn’t go to the Fair, but this really puts everything into perspective,” said Sandra Kluke, resident at St Josephs. “It brings back memories of when we used to bring our own kids to the Fair.”

Kluke explained that many residents who usually stay inside came outdoors to see the animals. “It’s really nice to hold them, pet them. It’s a great feeling,” she said.

Staff explained that they were very thankful for the volunteers who showed up. Wendy Stewart, who helped organize the event, explained that it took only two phone calls to bring out a large number of youth and even more animals.

“To have the young kids show up and do this, it’s incredible,” said Stewart. She pointed out the joy that could be seen, even behind masks, on the residents faces because of their efforts.

Ron Hodgins of R&R farms helped bring youth and animals to the event. He explained that many of the residents grew up on farms and around animals, but are unable to get out and see animals like they used to.

“They’ve had farms longer than I have,” said Hodgins. “So it’s a mini-fair that they get to see some animals.”

The ladies who won the “best dressed” competition were Lois Callaghan and Grace Smart, who were some of the many residents seen wearing cowboy hats and other farm and fair-related apparel.

“The people who come and donate their time, it means a lot to the residents, it means a lot to all of us,” said Director Colleen Larivière.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better day,” said Kluke.

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