An event to raise money for the Nanoose Bay Community Cupboard was so successful on Dec. 17, it will now become an annual event. The owner of the Red Cod Forge held a Christmas studio open house last Saturday and he is overwhelmed by how generous the community was. The event generated $434.00 for the local food bank and Dave Kasprick said he had so much fun holding the fundraiser, he’s going to do it again next year.
The artist donated the proceeds from the sale of his original forged star fish to the Nanoose Bay Community Cupboard. Kasprick created quite a few of the one-of-a-kind metal pieces which completely sold out. All of the proceeds from the sale went directly to the Nanoose Bay Community Cupboard. Kasprick said people also dropped off food donations.
“All the donations helped out. It was a huge success. We had lots of people come by from all over,” he said.
Also pleased with the generosity of the community is Virginia Brucker. She and her husband Charlie started the Nanoose Bay Christmas Elf Program over 20 years ago and the food bank that grew out of it now helps over 100 people a month. Brucker said the big cash donation was a welcome surprise.
“I thought we might get $100. I was amazed by the total,” said Brucker.
She added the money will go a long way in buying fresh fruit and vegetables for the needy after Christmas.
Brucker said she is thrilled that Kasprick is going to turn the fundraiser into an annual event and she can’t thank him enough.
“He made the items himself. He spent a lot of his time on this,” she stated.
Brucker and her elves have also been busy and have provided help to 222 people this Christmas.
She said although they plan on taking a breather over the next few days, she reminds people that they need to remember there are hungry people in the community not just at Christmas, but year round.
If you would like to assist the Nanoose Bay Community Cupboard e-mail info@nanoosecommunityservices.com.