Cornwall, ON —We are excited to announce that Caisse Desjardins Ontario has generously sponsored a handful of restaurant pop up patios during the COVID-19 pandemic. Caisse Desjardins Ontario saw an opportunity to help small businesses who had to pivot during the crisis in order to serve their loyal customers safely, while reopening to the public. They have generously provided $5000 in sponsorship to allow 5 patios to expand for the remainder of the season, including: Edward’s Bistro, Rurban Brewery, Schnitzels, Stomping Grounds, and Truffles. This will allow for proper spacing and social distancing practices while creating vibrancy in high-traffic areas, such as the downtown and surrounding areas.

Through a partnership with the experienCity project, Kim Julien explained how it was important for Caisse Desjardins Ontario to be there for businesses who have been hit hard during the pandemic: “At Desjardins, we actively participate in the social and economic development of communities in order to help create sustainable prosperity. We are proud to be part of that project and we hope that the community will benefit from these patios this summer.”

Rurban Brewing had this to say about the support: “A HUGE thank you to Desjardins – they understand small business in a way no other bank we’ve ever dealt with has, and have played a huge role in helping us transform our taproom into an outdoor patio. Merci Desjardins, et santé!” Jason Wagner, owner of Edward’s Bistro added: ” Rosemarie and I have been overwhelmed with the strong support of the community here in Cornwall by its residents, local agencies and businesses in its willingness to help each other during these difficult times of Covid.”

A special thank you to the City of Cornwall for assisting and leading the efforts in collaborating with local restaurants and bars to expand their outdoor seating.