What started out as a simple idea to support a grieving community has turned into a major fundraiser surpassing all expectations.
On April 9, three days following the tragic crash in Saskatchewan that killed 16 people aboard the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team bus, staff at Keltech Signs sprung into action.
“I have no ties to (the team or community) whatsoever … but I felt like I needed to do something,” said Erin Holmes, graphic designer at Keltech Signs in Fergus.
With an idea from a friend in Barrie and the approval of Keltech owner Dave Adsett, Holmes and fellow employees decided to print and distribute Broncos decals, for a minimum donation of $2 each, with 100 per cent of the proceeds going to support the Humboldt community.
It was clear early on they had underestimated demand for the stickers and the desire of residents to rally behind the cause.
“It’s been crazy,” Holmes said of the response.
At the outset, she explained, organizers planned on printing about 100 to 200 decals. But within four days the Fergus businesses had distributed thousands of stickers, raising close to $4,000 – with large orders still to be filled.
“It was a shock,” Holmes said. “I think [the tragedy] has touched a lot of people because we can all relate to it.”
Keltech shipped decals all over Ontario and as far as New Jersey and Texas. Despite the minimum ask of $2, on average people are donating closer to $3 per sticker, with some donating up to $20 for one.
The fundraiser would not have been such a success were it not for a donation from supplier Grimco, which donated a roll of printable vinyl to the cause.
As of April 17, the fundraiser had distributed almost 3,900 decals and raised close to $10,000.
Keltech officials say proceeds will be donated directly to the Broncos or to the “Funds for Humboldt Broncos” GoFundMe campaign, which had raised over $12 million by April 17.
The campaign, which had an original goal of $4 million, is now the largest GoFundMe effort in Canadian history.
The decals will be available until April 20 at Keltech and the Wellington Advertiser on Garthshore Street in Fergus.
For information on other locations or large orders contact Keltech at 519-787-0317 or info@keltechsigns.com.
