BONNYVILLE – Despite increased financial pressures seen throughout 2022, Bonnyville residents have turned up and went above and beyond last year’s totals received through the Bonnyville RCMP detachment’s Pack the Police Car food drive.
The Bonnyville RCMP held its annual Pack the Police Car event on Dec. 16, with some help from other first responders and community groups.
“I’ve done this event for five years now and every year I’m blown away by the generosity of our community,” said RCMP Staff Sgt. Sarah Parke.
“Everyone has been feeling the pinch with the economy and inflation but that didn’t stop community members from donating food and cash to the annual event, knowing it would go to families in need this holiday season.”
The local detachment brought two police trucks to the Sobey’s parking lot that were filled to the brim in a matter of hours.
Surpassing last year's total food donations weight by 860 lbs, the detachment’s Pack the Police Car event was able to provide local food banks with 5,060 lbs of food.
In addition, $700 was also collected. That money was used to buy grocery gift cards for those needing a little extra help this season, added Parke.
Community partners also volunteering their time for the cause included members from Bonnyville Victim Services, service dog Odie, Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority members, MD peace officers, and even a U13 Bonnyville Pontiacs Minor Hockey team.
