Mr. Speaker, today I would like to congratulate Burlington's 2013 Citizen of the Year, Ms. Jean Longfield.
Jean has positively impacted the lives of thousands of people through her Gift of Giving Back program.
Beginning in 2007, the annual food drive program has collected more than 770,000 pounds of food, with a collective value of more than $1.9 million, to help the less fortunate in Burlington. Through Jean's leadership, the Salvation Army, the Carpenter Hospice, Partnership West Food Bank, and Halton Women's Place have all benefited from her food drive.
Jean has inspired and engaged thousands of Burlington minor hockey players, students, and parents. Jean and her minor hockey food drive program were even featured this year on Hockey Night in Canada.
Congratulations to Jean Longfield, a great leader in our community and a great Canadian.