The Community Connections Revelstoke Food Bank’s 2012 Christmas Hamper campaign is in full swing, collecting money, food, gifts, clothing and practical donations of all kinds at their depot at the Revelstoke Legion.
They’re open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Monday to Saturday.
Coordinator Patti Larson said that need is up again so far this year. They’d passed 140 applications as of late last week and are predicting they’ll put together more than 200 custom hampers this year.
“We’re always looking for donations of practical things,” Larson said. Cash is the most practical of all because the food bank can leverage special bulk buy deals from partners such as Cooper’s Foods.
Of course, residents think of toys at this time of year, but all kinds of donations are accepted. Socks, warm clothes and pajamas are a few examples.
Practical gift ideas include packages of nice coffee or protein rich foods like nuts.
The team of volunteers at the food bank have been packing hampers since Dec. 6 and are ready for your donations now as they will start distributing them this week.
There are several big fundraisers planned in the coming weeks:
CP Rail Holiday Train
Doc Walker and Miss Emily headline the CP Rail Holiday Train this year, which is one of the biggest fundraisers for the food bank. Bring a donation down to the CP Rail parking lot for the Dec. 14, 5:30 p.m. scheduled arrival and 6 p.m. show.
Cooper’s Foods donates hot chocolate and hot dogs and Revelstoke firefighters volunteer to host the barbecue and bonfire.
Gift wrapping by donation
Chantilly Kitchen Bed ‘n’ Bath offers free gift wrapping of all gifts by donation to the Christmas Hamper program.
Somewon Snow White Out Party
The Dec. 15, 9 p.m. show at the Big Eddy Pub will channel all proceeds to the food bank Hamper Program. Tickets are $10. Dress in all white.
Revelstoke Credit Union
The Revelstoke Credit Union is partnering with the Christmas Hamper program to provide gift bags for seniors in the community.
Hat & Mitten campaign
Carol Sakamoto is collecting hats and mittens at drop boxes throughout town. Residents are encouraged to knit them and drop them off.
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Larson said the food bank and Christmas Hamper program has been hurt by persistent rumours that some are taking advantage of the program – specifically that ski bums are freeloading off the food bank.
That’s just not true, Larson said. “There isn’t any misuse or abuse,” she said.
“We have never had an Australian in here,” Larson noted, alluding to the myth that the community program is being overrun by antipodeans. She adds that they have had one Australian voluteering at the food bank.
If you’re interested in volunteering, they have a few openings. Call Patti at 250-837-1849 or drop by the centre.