The Tom Jackson salute, originally scheduled for June 19, will be held later in the year, due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

When a new date is established, it will continue to support the Cochrane Activettes food bank.

Organizer Dan Kroffat says postponing the event is the right thing to do, but that it is crucial to go forward to help the food bank.

"I'm thinking by postponing this to a later date we may be able to help them even further because at the end of this crisis I think we're going to have a high demand for replacement."

He says the initial sponsorships and ticket sales were overwhelming, and it makes him eager to find an appropriate date in the future.

"We had over 100 ticket purchases in the first two weeks, so that certainly said to me there's an appetite for continuing this initiative."

Known for promoting grass-roots community projects, Kroffat said it's important we reach out and take care of one another, and to follow the protocols established by health and government officials. He believes Cochranites are doing just that.

"There's so much happening in the community. I think we have a lot to be proud of, and, historically, one day we'll look back on this, and we'll hold our head high and take pride in doing all the right things."

The Jackson salute will be the fourth Community Builder charity event organized by Kroffat. Jack Tennant, a long-time newspaperman, was the first person honoured.

After that, it grew into a fundraiser. The last two have raised substantial funds in support of the Big Hill Haven, and the Girl Guides' Camp Jubilee.

Jackson is a well-known Canadian actor and singer, known for his support of humanitarian causes, including food banks.

"He's an individual who has been associated with food banks for the last 30-40 years, and he addresses their needs right across Canada," says Kroffat. "So, having him here locally to help us raise money to help the Activettes is quite exciting."