With more than half of British Columbians feeling stressed about making ends meet, the holidays may look very different for some families this year, but residents in Lake Country have an opportunity to fill the gap for those in need.
The Lake Country RCMP has partnered with the Lake Country Food Bank, Salvation Army, and Save-On-Foods, for the 12th annual Cram the Cruiser toy and food drive.
“Christmas can be a stressful time for families,” states Sgt. Jon Collins, Unit Commander for the Lake Country RCMP Detachment. “This is our way to give back to our community when they need it the most at this time of year.”
On Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., volunteers will be on hand at the Save-on-Foods at 9522 Main Street to collect new, unwrapped food and toy donations.
Last year’s event resulted in 189 new toys and 19 used toys donated to families in need.
“We truly appreciate the donations raised by the Lake Country RCMP,” states Joy Haxton, manager of the Lake Country Food Bank. “Donations raised in Lake Country help make Christmas brighter for local families in need within our own community. Local area food banks have seen a 3-fold increase in requests this year.”
Since 2012, over $50,056 in cash or checks and 14,500 pounds of items have been donated. If you would like to make a donation but can’t get to Save-On-Foods on Dec. 2, Lake Country RCMP on Berry Road and Royal lePage at 10058, Hwy 97 in Lake Country will also be accepting unwrapped toys, food, cash and cheque donations for the food bank from now until Friday Dec. 9.