The Cold Lake Food Bank have been hard at work fundraising in preparation for the holiday season, and have had some positive results so far.
Phil Crump, director for the food bank, noted it’s the time of year when people give the most.
“The Christmas season is the time when most of the donations that keep the food bank running actually come in. We’re fortunate that people think about us and want to help. The food that comes in helps us maintain our helping people right through into January,” he expressed.
So far this month, the food bank has hosted the Pack the Patrol Car, which brought in over 1,200 kilograms of donations.
“It more than doubled from last year in food, it was a great response,” he expressed.
Another fundraiser for them this year was the entry fee from the Magic of Christmas Gift and Craft Show, which raised just over $2,300.
Coming up on Friday, Dec. 14, is the annual Christmas Carol Festival at the Agriplex. It will help raise money for food hampers.
Lindsay Toth, marketing events for the Cold Lake Agricultural Society, said they’ve hosted the carol night for over 20 years at the Agriplex.
“It’s been an honour to get the place all dressed up with trees and lights each season, and to be part of something that’s so much bigger than a couple of songs and non-perishable food items. Together, we’re making a difference, not only for the individuals who utilize the services, but also for the great community who need some Christmas cheer,” she exclaimed.
On Saturday, Dec. 15, residents can help Fill a Bus at the Sobeys grocery store. They will be collecting more items for the Cold Lake Christmas Hamper Project.
“We’re looking to collect over 400 turkeys and non-perishable food items for the Christmas hampers... We have a hamper that has enough food for a family for all three meals at Christmas time,” detailed Crump.
To participate, it’s as easy as adding another item to your cart while shopping.
“You come, do your shopping, buy something for the food bank, and drop it off... There will be happy people there to greet you. It will be brought to the food bank, sorted out there, and then it gets ready to go into the hampers,” Crump said.
While they’re aiming to collect 410 turkeys, Crump isn’t sure just how many they may need this year.
“Right now, our applications (for food hampers) are around 330,” he said.
Operation Hockey Heroes will also be making a contribution to the food bank, with their request for a non-perishable food item in exchange for admission to the event.
Crump described the support from the Cold Lake community as amazing, and said it allows them to offer their services to those who need it.
“It means that we can provide Christmas day meals for people that need the help, and support on Christmas and continue to provide hampers into the new year.”
For more information on the events happening to support the Cold Lake Food Bank, visit them on social media or call 780 201-6589 .
