Daphne Arnason and Leo Bourassa

Long-time supporters of the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre, Daphne Arnason and Leo Bourassa, have generously donated $100,000 to the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre’s Nutrien Plant Possibility capital campaign.

Daphne and Leo both hail from rural communities in south/southeast Saskatchewan but chose to make Saskatoon their home post high school. After convocation from the University of Saskatchewan with Bachelor of Commerce degrees, they each pursued successful, professional careers as CPA’s (formerly Chartered Accountants). They are now retired and plan to remain in the city they’ve called home for 50 years. 

While maintaining close family ties to the rural communities they grew up in, Daphne and Leo enjoyed raising their family in Saskatoon, a city they describe as caring and friendly with lots to offer for young and old. Their four sons completed their education in the city and now have busy and growing families of their own. Daphne and Leo enjoy spending time with them (especially the grandkids!) and being able to participate in their activities.

In their careers, Daphne and Leo found there was often a strong connection to agriculture and they recognize the central role agriculture has played in building Saskatchewan. They felt fortunate that their employers encouraged involvement in philanthropic activities and the couple easily made personal connections to charities that provide physical nourishment to those in need right here in the province. 

Daphne and Leo’s generous gift to the Nutrien Plant Possibility campaign builds on many years of donating to the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre. They know that there are many in our community who struggle to access life’s basic necessities and feel the services provided by the food bank align with their own personal values.  

When asked why they donate, Daphne and Leo are emphatic: “Giving back to our community is a privilege, as well as a responsibility.  In turn, it is a very rewarding experience, especially when we can witness firsthand the fruits of our collective efforts.  Participating in this campaign feels right!”