December is traditionally a month of giving in Revelstoke, when the community comes together to support those in need during the Christmas season.
There are many, many ways you can help out, whether its through one of the schools, by attending a fundraiser or by donating directly to the food bank or indirectly through one of the many businesses in town.
The most needed items are: Cans of tuna, salmon, ham and other meats; pasta, pasta sauce and tomatoes; chunky soups, meal in a tin (i.e. stew); breakfast cereals, pancake mix and syrup; fruit juice and canned milk; canned vegetables and fruit; peanut butter/jam; baby food, cereal and diapers; toiletries such as toothpaste, shampoo and soap; laundry detergent; and pet food, dry or canned.
The food bank is also collecting for its annual Christmas Hamper Program. They are looking for items such as toys, books, and games; gift boxes of cookies, tea or coffee; specialty foods, calendars, magazines, candles, napkins, kitchen towels, gloves, scarves, socks, blankets, backpacks, backpacks, movie bucks, and gift cards from any local store.
The Review is compiling a list of ways to help the Community Connections food bank and other programs over the holidays. We'll update it as more come in. Note that all donations go to the food bank, unless noted.
Community Connections
You can donate directly to the Christmas Hamper program at the Community Connections office on Second Street East, at the food bank in the basement of the Legion, and through the organization's website.
Christmas Pyjama Drive
Lexie Ast is organizing a drive to collect pyjamas for the Christmas Hamper program. She is asking people to donate a new set of pyjamas, socks and underwear for kids up to 19 years old. Drop off points have been set up at the Revelstoke library and Arrow Heights Elementary.
Cooper's Foods
There are several ways to donate at Cooper's. There's a donation box near the door, or you can add a $2 coupon to your order. You can also donate your Save on More points to the food bank.
Red Apple
The Red Apple is hosting a toy drive until December 15. You can either purchase a toy from the store, or donate cash.
Revelstoke Grizzlies
The Revelstoke Grizzlies are hosting their annual sock & mitten toss during their home game against the Kamloops Storm on Saturday, Dec. 12 — the team's last before the holidays. Bring your new socks and/or mittens to the game and throw them on the ice when the Grizzlies score. The team will also be collection donations for the food bank at the game.
Somewon Whiteout Party
Local clothing and apparel company Somewon hosts its annual Whiteout Party, featuring Blades of Steel, at the Traverse this Saturday, Dec. 7. Tickets are $15 and all proceeds go to the food bank. You can get tickets at Integrated Apparel and Society Snow & Skate.
Revelstoke Secondary School
The RSS Me to We Club is collecting socks and money for those in need. You can donate to any high school student. The school as a whole is also collecting food and gifts that will be given to an anonymous family adopted by each class.
Begbie View Elementary
The BVE Me to We team is hosting a clothing drive this until Dec. 4. They are collecting pyjamas, socks and underwear for children. From Dec. 7–17 they will be collecting food and other goods for the food bank.
If you'd like to add your initiative to the list, please e-mail alex.cooper@revelstokereview.ca.