A Bright Beginning: The Serendipity Behind Harbour Lights’ First Donation

Back in 1997, CBC morning show host Paul Castle had an idea — a simple holiday wish, really. He hoped to raise $10,000 to support food banks across Southwestern New Brunswick. That hope became the very first Harbour Lights Campaign, a fundraiser that has since become a beloved regional tradition.

And here’s the coincidence we love: the first-ever donation to Harbour Lights — that same $10,000 Paul dreamed of raising — came from… us! The Greater Saint John Community Foundation.

With support from local broadcasters like Hance Colburne, the community in 1977 didn’t just meet the goal — they rallied together and raised $37,000 in that first year, sending much-needed funds to food banks throughout the region.

Nearly three decades later, Harbour Lights continues to shine as a symbol of generosity, partnership, and regional pride. And as we celebrate 50 years of community impact, we find ourselves partnering with the Harbour Lights Campaign once again in 2025 — a full-circle moment we couldn’t have scripted better if we tried.

This is Story #5 in our 50 Stories for 50 Years series — a reminder that sometimes the smallest coincidences lead to the brightest traditions.