Music lovers came out in a big way to help the Holiday Jam for Hunger mark a significant milestone on Saturday night.
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The 20th annual event, which took place at Sons of Kent Brewing Co. in Chatham, helped raise money for Hope House – Mental Health Network of Chatham-Kent and Chatham Outreach for Hunger.
Created in 2004, the jam has taken place each year, albeit virtually in 2020 and 2021, and has been organized the last 13 years by area musician Alysson Storey.
“It feels pretty good. It’s kind of surprising. I never would’ve imagined (this) 20 years ago, when we just had some high school buddies jamming together in a barn out in Blenheim,” she said of the fundraiser’s longevity. “But I couldn’t be happier.
“It’s a great homecoming for friends and family. The added bonus is raising money for two great community organizations.”
Sons of Kent and an anonymous donor sponsored this year’s event, with admission by donation.
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While different causes were supported initially, food insecurity became the focus the past several years, due to the growing demand.
“I never would’ve imagined that the need would be even stronger, 20 years later,” Storey said. “It can be challenging to think that we’re not making a tooth, but at the same time, every dollar does help the immediate need.
“But the long-term issue of food insecurity has to be addressed.”
She credited bosses and businesses for their generosity, as well as the musicians for giving their time.
“It goes to show Chatham-Kent shows up when it counts,” she added. “Sons of Kent has been very accommodating over the years.”
Headlining this year’s jam was the Soul Remedy Orchestra, featuring Bryan McLellan on drums, Don McLellan on bass and backing vocals, Toby O’Hara on guitar and lead vocals, Clancy O’Hara on keyboard, Finn O’Hara on alto sax, Cal O’Hara on baritone sax, Joel Tomlenovich on the trumpet, and Dan Martin on lead guitar.
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Opening the evening was 40 Hours Over, with Ben Barnard on bass and vocals, Matt Roberts lead guitar and vocals, and Trent Jeffrey on drums.
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