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Mary Brown’s Chicken donates over $200,000 to the Canadian Red Cross

By Eddie Sheerr·September 16, 2025 · 4:25 PM

Carbonear, NL – A special fundraising effort by Mary Brown’s Chicken has brought in $218,137.41 for the Canadian Red Cross 2025 Newfoundland and Labrador Wildfire Appeal. With matching funds from the provincial and federal governments, the total contribution will exceed $654,000. Mary Brown’s donated the proceeds from 50% of all Batter’s Box sales to the Canadian Red Cross NL Wildfire Appeal. The fundraiser was held Province-wide on Friday, September 12, 2025.

Today, the cheque was delivered to the Red Cross at the Carbonear store, chosen because of its close ties to wildfire-affected communities.

“Our manager Robert, who lives in Small Point, was personally impacted by the fire and was evacuated for three and a half weeks. Despite that, he came to work every day, preparing food for volunteers and evacuees. It was really important that we hosted this event here,” said Darren Durdle, Mary Brown’s Provincial (NL) Director of Operations.

The community response was described as overwhelming.

“Friday was incredible. There were long lineups, people clapping, cheering, even singing in the dining room while waiting for orders. Our crews were happy, and guests were happy—even with the extra wait. It was an absolutely incredible experience,” said Durdle.

The Red Cross noted the significant impact this fundraising will have for wildfire recovery.

“This is a huge contribution to the Wildfire Appeal, and we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mary Brown’s and to everyone in Newfoundland who supported this initiative,” said Robert Doyle, Canadian Red Cross Emergency Manager Coordinate for Eastern Newfoundland.

Funds raised will go directly to supporting individuals and families affected by wildfires across the province.

“We work with impacted communities and their family members to support their needs on an ongoing basis. It’s usually the local communities who help determine where support is needed most,” said Doyle.

The Red Cross continues to accept donations for the Wildfire Appeal at www.redcross.ca