Merb'ys big splash turns into large cash donation

What started out as a small bit of fun for a few bearded fellows in St. John's turned into a giant amount of money donated to a good cause after a creative calendar garnered world-wide attention. 

Using the proceeds earned from it's international hit calendar the Newfoundland and Labrador Beard and Moustache Club donated $300,466.53 to Spirit Horse N.L. on Saturday afternoon at the Delta Hotel in St. John's.

"It's incredibly rewarding," said Hasan Hai, otherwise known as Mr. January and the man who helped create the Merb'ys.

"The dollar amount is significant and know that we made a significant difference, not just in the lives of Erin but in everyone she'll help through Spirit Horse."

The Merb'y calendar made headlines all over the world with more than 14,000 copies being sold in 40 different countries. (Jeremy Eaton/CBC)

Hai is referring to Sprit Horse N.L., a group created by Erin Gallant and whose goal is to enhance he mental health and life skills of people through therapeutic interaction with horses.

"My reaction was complete shock," Gallant said.

"I still haven't processed what I am going to do with it. I know it's going to help a lot of people for a very long time to access our services."

Spirit Horses N.L. thought she might get a little bit of money but never imagined it would reach $300,466.53. (Jeremy Eaton/CBC)

Hai said work has already begun with next years Merb'ys calendar, one that he hopes will feature models and scenes from all over Newfoundland and Labrador. 

You can watch more of the donation event in the video below.