05/22/2026
π UPDATE OUT! π May 26 fundraiser screening of 'We Lend A Hand - The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes. We are so encouraged by your amazing support!
π Did you know there's a written "Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz - Memories of Ontario Farmerettes'? They will be available for purchase on screening night and signed by the author Bonnie Sitter.
During WWII, young women were urged to βlend a handβ β. Motivated by patriotism or a thirst for adventure, this book recounts fond memories forged by the women while working hard and playing hard.
After grueling days picking cherries or weeding onions, they hitchhiked to dances, went on hay rides, roller skated, or swam in Lake Huron. For some, this first trip away from home sparked a passion for rural life and led to them building their lives in small communities. This book captures their memories, lives and experiences.
Be sure to check out the vintage archival photos and more. The book definitely is one you want to keep for years to come.
π There will also be T-shirts with the Farmerette We Lend A Hand Badge on them, cloth bags and all occasion cards (4 to a pack), embroidered badges and enlarged postage stamps.
On May 26 Tues night screening, you will discover the incredible story of 40,000 teenage girls who stepped up during WWII to keep Ontario farms running and food on tables. These Farmerettes played a vital role in feeding troops, starving European families, and even prisoners of war - all while their incredible contributions FADED FROM HISTORY! π
Through moving reenactments and rare archival photos, this unforgettable documentary shares the memories of these remarkable women, now in their late 90s, and reminds us that service comes in many forms π
π¬ Followed by a LIVE Q&A with Bonnie Sitter
π Book sales & signing after the screening, merchandise sales
π 7:00 PM (Doors open 6:30 PM)
π Beacan Presbyterian Church
413 Simcoe St, Beaverton
A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors:
π Durham Region Federation of Agriculture
π Durham Farm Connections
π Invest Durham
π Durham West 4-H Association
π Beaverton Thorah Eldon Historical Society
π Supported by Region of Durham
π Supported by REMAX Country Lakes Realty
β€οΈ We are honoured to bring this screening to you on our 50th Anniversary and to share this powerful forgotten history. See you there!