An annual donation drive called Tin for the Critter Bin in Memory of Ethan Boyer has been collecting food for animals at Manitoba rescues for the past six years.
Ethan Boyer, a Balmoral teen who died on Oct. 25, 2019, in a collision at the Perimeter Highway and Brady Road, was known for his love of animals. His family continues to honour that passion by collecting pet food and supplies for rescues across the province.
This past October marked the fifth year the Boyer family partnered with Nicole Nagy, owner of Quarry Pets in Stonewall, to raise funds, collect pet food and spread awareness for the cause. Staff gathered donations from customers and pet food representatives, and sold Tin for the Critter Bin T-shirts at the store. They also held a “Kong Draw” throughout the month, which raised an additional $475 used to purchase more pet food. Quarry Pets customer Jen Rohl was this year’s draw winner.
Donations collected at Quarry Pets, along with contributions from a few Winnipeg pet stores, have played a vital role in helping local rescues provide care and nourishment to animals in need. It is an effort that reflects Ethan’s enduring love for all creatures.
Although October is the designated annual donation month, pet food contributions are welcome year-round. T-shirts remain available at Quarry Pets, through the Tin for the Critter Bin Facebook page, or by contacting Ethan’s father, Dana Boyer, at +1-204-461-1514.
“This helps us put our pain into purpose and deal with the tragic passing of our critter-loving Ethan,” Dana said.
Monetary donations are also welcomed throughout the year and may be directed to the Interlake Community Foundation for the legacy fund established by the Boyer family. The Ethan Boyer Memorial Fund — Tin for the Critter Bin will provide an annual grant to one or more pet charities chosen by the family. Tax-receipted gifts can be made at: https://interlakefoundation.ca/cause/ways-to-give/.
In addition to supporting rescues, the Boyer family has become an advocate for safer roads. The intersection where Ethan lost his life has become central to that mission.
Today, instead of accessing the Brady landfill from a high-speed roadway, drivers enter through what is now known as Ethan Boyer Way — a change meant to prevent future tragedy and serve as a lasting tribute to Ethan’s memory.
