By David F. Rooney
Revelstoke’s largest and most effective food drive of the year is about to get underway.
The two-day Emergency Services’ Food Drive is ready to begin next week with a cast of hundreds of volunteers who will next Wednesday and Thursday, September 21 – 22, begin canvassing neighbourhoods in search of foods to feed hungry locals who rely on it.
The Community Connections Food Bank has been feeding 426 adults and 152 children from 363 households, said Patti Larson, a member of Community Connections’ executive team and manager of Community Outreach.
The volunteers who man the shop and ensure there is something for everyone, manage to do an excellent job.
Last year’s Emergency Services Food Drive’s 350 volunteers managed to raise 11,000 to 12,000 lbs of food and they hope to raise the amount this year.
Unfortunately, this year’s drive will be without Krista Kallio, who has moved to Kelowna to accept a new position with the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce.
“It’s a bit overwhelming, actually,” Patti said having to organize this year’s food drive without her right-hand woman. “It’s not going to be the same. Krista has such presence and such a voice.”
Well, Patti, We’re certain you’ll be able to handle the challenge.
This year’s Emergency Services’ Food Drive will see hundreds of volunteers representing the Fire Rescue Service, the RCMP, Parks Canada’s staff, Army Cadets, students from local schools and local residents. They’ll be out about on Wednesday and Thursday, September 21 and September 22, between 6 pm and 8 pm.
Please have a bag with your contribution ready to go. All items being donated should be securely packaged and not open. Here’s a list of items that Patti says are badly needed:
- Peanut butter;
- Canned tuna, salmon & other meats;
- Canned vegetables and fruit;
- Fruit juice;
- Breakfast cereals;
- Chunky soups, stews;
- Pasta;
- Pasta sauce;
- Tomatoes;
- Healthy snack options for children;
- Toilet paper; and
- Canned milk.
