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“Our goal today between our two locations in Kelowna and West Kelowna is to bring in 40,000 pounds of food,” says Trevor Moss, chief executive officer of Central Okanagan food bank.
They organize their staples on different food categories to be able to place them in premade hampers.
The crates include pasta, rice, canned goods, juices, meats, and essentials such as baby food and diapers.
Following COVID-19 protocols, there are around 40 volunteers helping in today's event.
“Right now, I'm sorting all the food that has been coming in all morning from all the houses of people that have donated for thanksgiving. I’m here because I like giving back to the community and the food bank is such a great cause that helps so many people,” says volunteer Hannah Romano.
The food bank told KelownaNow that their need for supplies has gone up, in comparison to last year.
“It’s still 25% more than what it was last year. People are really struggling, the costs of inflation have gone up and the cost of food is actually 5% higher this year,” added Moss.
They explained they are feeding approximately 4,500 individuals a month between their two locations.
The BC Thanksgiving food drive has collaborated on this project with the bank for the past 11 years.
Taking place all through the Okanagan, volunteers are driving and picking up the donations from the doorsteps of residents.
“As I see the carloads full of bags filled with groceries for the food banks it brings joy to my heart to see that we are doing some good in the community and helping those in need,” says Gordon Oliver, communications director of BC Thanksgiving Food Drive.
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