They will soon be out of job themselves, but that didn’t stop workers at the Canfor mill in Vavenby from giving back to their community this past weekend.

United Steelworkers Local 1-417 President Marty Gibbons says the workers donated $500 to help underprivileged kids in Clearwater play sports.

“What’s really great about this donation now is this group of workers have been one of the largest donators to the United Way in the Thompson Okanagan area, and they’ve always given back to their community,” he said. “Even during these tough times, they’re still giving to their community.”

When the Vavenby mill permanently closes its doors next month, 178 people will be out of a job, and Gibbons says the impacts will be felt far and wide.

“This mill was always about the community, and you know it will be great loss for the entire community, these jobs leaving town,” he added. “This will be difficult, but we will get through it.”

(Photo via United Steelworkers Local 1-417)