--- Long-time Aylmer resident Joy Ruttan raises money for the Aylmer Food Centre

Jordan Gowling

Joy Ruttan, also known as “Jammy Joy” by her friends, has put her jam making skills to good use this year to raise funds for the Aylmer Food Centre. Ruttan has received requests for approximately 78 jars of jam to give away to friends. In return, she asks each recipient to donate at least five dollars to the Aylmer Food Centre. “I’m just this old woman who makes jam in her kitchen,” Ruttan said jokingly. “I’m not a business.” 

The 85-year old has strong ties to the Aylmer community, ever since she moved here in 1975. Now retired, she was a teacher at the École Montessori de l’Outaouais from 1977 until 2001. She is also a member of the Aylmer United Church.  Ruttan says she would normally be producing jam for her fellow church members at church bazaars, but with the cancellation of church events she was compelled this year to help the Aylmer Food Centre directly.  “I heard this quote that says service is the rent we pay for our room on earth,” she said. “It is our obligation to share.”

Ruttan was born during the great depression and was a child during the Second World War. She says watching her grandmother help out people in need during those periods had a lasting effect on her. Ruttan says the pandemic has been challenging for her, especially not being able to see her children in person. “It’s been horrible,” she said.  However, Ruttan remains optimistic and has kept her sense of humour. “When you have a lot of spare time, you either read or make jam,” she said.

The Aylmer Food Centre is accepting food and cash donations. If you have any questions you can reach them at 819-684-0163.