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Family overwhelmed by Winnipeggers’ support for late mother’s Christmas wish

Hundreds of people donated to Winnipeg Harvest at the Kwiatek family donation drive. Jeremy Desrochers / Global News

WINNIPEG — Hundreds of people came out to support the Kwiatek family and Winnipeg Harvest Thursday night.

For years, the Kwiateks created a stunning Christmas light display in front of their Transcona home.

Last summer, Peter Kwiatek lost his wife Pam to cancer. One of her dying wishes was to collect food donations for Winnipeg Harvest when setting up Christmas lights each year.

Peter and his kids made that wish come true Thursday night.

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“She would have happy tears, that’s what she would have,” Peter Kwiatek Jr. said as his two sisters and father agreed. “A big smile and happy tears.”

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WATCH: Kwiatek family speaks about overwhelming support for donation drive

Click to play video: 'Winnipeg family speaks about support for Christmas light donation drive in honour of late wife, mother'
Winnipeg family speaks about support for Christmas light donation drive in honour of late wife, mother

READ MORE: After losing wife to cancer, Winnipeg man carries on Christmas light tradition for charity

The large number of people from across the city who showed up for the Winnipeg Harvest donation drive at 503 Kildare Ave. W., overwhelmed the family with support.

“It’s unbelievable,” Sherry Welling, Peter and Pam’s daughter, said. “The amount of people that have come out and donated is unreal.”

“I think she would be so happy,” Billie Kwiatek, Peter and Pam’s younger daughter, said about her late mother. “This is something she wanted to do – she loves the community.”

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The Kwiateks’ Christmas display included more than 30,000 lights and more than 100 glowing pieces, including Santa, reindeer and candy canes.

“If you can’t make it out with donations tonight, you’re more than welcome to come after work. I’m generally home by 4 p.m.” Kwiatek said.

WATCH: Christmas light display shines bright

Click to play video: 'Pam’s big wish: Christmas light show raises money for a good cause'
Pam’s big wish: Christmas light show raises money for a good cause

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