Putting The Heart in Hartington
In 1981 a small group of friends gathered in the hamlet of Hartington to discuss the founding of a charity — an organized way to recycle good used items such as clothing and small appliances back into the community through sales. By doing so, they would not only reduce pressure on landfills but would generate some monetary donations to help those in need. The result was Portland Township Community Caring. On opening day in July 1981, three visitors were recorded with zero sales. Not an auspicious beginning! But really, could such a venture possibly succeed in this small rural area?
Well, fast-forward through 45 years. During this time, that little charity with its humble beginnings has experienced the loss of its founders and many beloved volunteers, has outgrown its original home and moved to its current location in the Princess Anne Building, has weathered challenges such as COVID and drought, has had an updated change of name (now South Frontenac-Hartington Community Sharing Centre) and has not only survived — it has thrived. In 2025 over $130,000.00 was donated to local organizations and services to help those in need in our community!
This has only been achieved through the support of those who continuously fill our drop-off box with good quality, used clothing and saleable items, our generous, always helpful landlord (South Frontenac Township and the incredible people who work there), our loyal customers, and, most of all, our dedicated, hard-working volunteers.
So in appreciation of what those few friends worked to establish in 1981 and all the effort of others through the years who have helped make those dreams successful, there is going to be a celebration! On Saturday July 11, 2026 our 45th Anniversary/Grand Re-Opening will be held at The Sharing Centre at 5597 Hwy 38, Hartington, ON from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and YOU are invited!
In addition to our store being open to shoppers and visitors, our neighbours — the South Frontenac Museum and the Kingston Frontenac Public Library will also be open to the public.. Alongside us, some of our community partners will be present with information about their services, with activities and maybe even some swag. Come for lunch — the SF Volunteer Firefighters will be on site with a fund-raising barbecue. And drop by our Animal Rescue Centre to adopt a “non-shedding, extremely low maintenance, guaranteed not to require food or incur vet bills” critter and have your name entered in a draw to take home our Hartington Share Bear or our Cute, Cuddly Caterpillar.
