In the heart of Goulais River, a small-town pharmacy is redefining what it means to care. At Pine Shores IDA, every prescription comes with a personal touch — and every customer is treated like family.
When Pine Shores IDA opened its doors in Goulais River, it quickly became more than just a place to fill prescriptions — it became part of the fabric of the community. With over 38 years of experience, Sam DeSumma a partner and pharmacist at Pine Shores Drug Mart, provides the highest quality of care to his patients and has helped shape the pharmacy into a trusted, welcoming space where neighbours truly feel looked after.
For many residents, Pine Shores IDA means comfort and connection. It’s the place where they’re greeted by name, where questions are answered patiently, and where a familiar face is always ready to lend a hand. “We’re not just serving customers, we’re serving our friends, our families, and our neighbours,” DeSumma said. “That changes how you approach every single interaction.”
When Pine Shores IDA expanded to Goulais River just over two and a half years ago, the team saw a need to better serve the area north of the Soo and to forge the same kinds of relationships that have always been at the heart of what they do. “The community has really embraced us and supported us,” DeSumma said. “We’ve worked hard to build that trust, and it’s something we value every single day.”
“I’m most proud of the relationships we’ve built,” DeSumma said. “Seeing families grow, helping people through tough times, and knowing we’ve earned their trust, that’s something special. It’s not just about filling prescriptions; it’s about being there for people when they need you most.”
DeSumma recalls one winter when a long-time customer struggled to get to town for her medications during a storm. “Now she doesn’t have to make that trip,” he said with a smile. “She can come right to Pine Shores, and we’re able to help her close to home, even deliver if she needs it. That’s just what you do in a small community; you look out for each other.”
That spirit of connection defines life in Goulais River, a mix of rural resilience, close-knit families, and shared pride in local business.
“It’s the sense of connection,” DeSumma said. “In a small town, your customers are also your neighbours, friends, and family. When someone walks in and says, ‘Thanks for helping me feel better,’ that makes every long day worth it.”
For DeSumma, the work is deeply personal.
“Grateful,” he said, describing how it feels each morning to open the doors.
“Every day is a new chance to make a difference, to check in with familiar faces, and to work alongside a great team that truly cares. It feels good to know you’re part of something that matters to your community.”
Our dedicated pharmacy support staff deserve to be celebrated as well — along with our nursing team of Kelly, Laurie, and Emma, whose care and commitment help ensure every patient receives the attention they deserve.
That community-first mindset drives the pharmacy’s future, too.
“My hope is that Pine Shores IDA continues to grow as a trusted, welcoming place where people know they’ll be taken care of,” DeSumma said. “We want to keep expanding our services to meet the community’s needs — whether that means more clinical offerings, better accessibility, or simply being here for those who count on us.”
Pharmacy itself is evolving, and DeSumma plans to evolve with it.
“Pharmacy is changing quickly, and we’re ready to evolve with it,” he said. “I see my role continuing to focus on supporting our patients through more personalized care — things like medication reviews, vaccinations, and health consultations that make a real difference in daily life. As a team, we’ll keep adapting to ensure our patients have the convenience and expertise they deserve, right here close to home.”
At its heart, Pine Shores IDA remains what it has always been — a small-town pharmacy built on compassion, trust, and genuine connection.
“We’re more than just a pharmacy — we’re part of your community,” DeSumma said. “Every prescription, every conversation, every small act of care matters to us. We take pride in knowing our customers by name and doing whatever we can to make their lives a little easier.”