It was an unusual Saturday at Erin’s Pub in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, as business owner Allan Bearns took the stage to read “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien in its entirety as a unique way to support the community. Bearns aimed to raise funds for The Gathering Place, a local organization assisting the homeless, by engaging customers with his marathon reading session of the classic 1937 tale.
The event coincided with Tolkien’s birthday, and Bearns found inspiration in the themes of friendship and adventure prevalent in the author’s work. He emphasized the significance of ordinary individuals rising to heroic deeds in Tolkien’s narratives, reflecting the spirit of generosity and goodwill he hoped to embody through his fundraising initiative.
While Bearns acknowledged the lighthearted nature of his fundraiser, he emphasized the profound issue of homelessness, a cause that holds personal significance for him due to his past experiences of transient living. Having faced homelessness himself, Bearns expressed empathy for those grappling with housing insecurity and commended The Gathering Place for its dedicated efforts in supporting marginalized individuals.
The marathon reading session lasted nearly 11 hours, with Bearns successfully completing the book just before midnight and raising $1,292 for The Gathering Place. His commitment to the cause and creative fundraising approach resonated with the audience, underscoring the community’s unity in addressing the pressing issue of homelessness.
Overall, Bearns’ unconventional fundraiser at Erin’s Pub not only showcased his passion for literature and social advocacy but also highlighted the resilience and compassion within the community as they rallied together to support a worthy cause.