Parksville Fire Rescue’s Fill the Boots for Food drive was a huge success because of the community’s generosity.
A total of $97,019 in cash for the Salvation Army food bank was collected over the weekend along with new unwrapped toys for the Society of Organized Services, according to a news release by the City of Parksville.
Residents in the Parksville Fire Protection Area generously support the annual drive and are the reason this campaign is so successful.
Parksville Fire Rescue appreciates the charity of residents who make the difference for many families in our community. The department is grateful for the support of Canadian Tire, Choices Market, BC Liquor Store, Quality Foods and Thrifty Foods.
“Due to the generosity of our residents, the annual food and toy drive continues to exceed Parksville Fire’s expectations," said Chief Marc Norris. "We are grateful for the residents of the Parksville Fire Protection Area, the overwhelming kindness of Craig Bay residents and our members who support the food drive with their time. On behalf of the members of Parksville Fire, a sincere thank you to all who make a difference in our community.”
Craig Bay residents donated a record $70,105 in cash and $2,237 lbs of groceries, according to a news release by the Craig Bay Fall Food Drive. Since 2015, Craig Bay residents have donated $344,140 and 22,391 pounds of groceries.
"Our donation, along with the donations from the PVFD's 'Fill the Boot' weekend will, indeed, make a difference in the lives of the clients who need help from the Salvation Army Food Bank and Soup Kitchen," the release said. "Donations like this go a long way in keeping groceries on the shelf and a meal on the plate."
Donations to the Salvation Army food bank and SOS may be made as follows:
• SOS is gratefully accepting donations for its Caring for Community at Christmas program. The program provides special gifts for local children and youth, and grocery store gift cards are provided to families, adults and seniors so they may choose food that is meaningful to them over the holidays. Financial donations can be made online at sosd69.com, by phone (250-248-2093)or in person Monday to Friday, frpm 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. New, unwrapped gifts can be dropped off during the same hours at the SOS Community Services Centre in Parksville (245 Hirst Ave. West) and at Qualicum Commons (744 Primrose St.);
• Salvation Army food bank donations are accepted at 886 Wembley Rd., Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
