The annual Peninsula Firefighters Christmas Food Drive returns this weekend, bringing the community together for a cherished annual tradition that supports those in need.
Organizers are gearing up for Saturday, December 14th, to support the increasing number of community members relying on the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank.
Donations are urgently needed as the food bank has seen a 20% increase in demand this year.
“We are seeing many new faces at the Food Bank these days, from young families to seniors who can no longer cover their basic living costs,” said Tyson Elder, Operations Manager of the Food Bank.
“We hope people find ways to give, including online donations through our website and taking part in this critical food drive.”
The drive features a combination of neighbourhood collection routes and drop-off stations at local fire halls.
Lieutenant Rick Toogood of Sidney Fire Rescue, who has coordinated the event for over a decade, said, “It is encouraging to see support from firefighters and the community for such an important cause.”
Other detachments joining the food drive include North Saanich and Central Saanich fire departments.
“The need has never been higher. I hope we can count on the support of Sidney residents,” said Toogood.
Non-perishable food items and cash donations are being accepted, and charitable receipts are available for donations over $25. Here are the ways to participate:
Sidney:
- Neighbourhood collection north of Beacon Avenue, December 14th, 12 p.m.–6 p.m.
- Drive-through donations at the Community Safety Building back parking lot, December 14th, 12 p.m.–6 p.m.
- Drop-offs at Sidney Community Safety Building until December 13th, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Central Saanich:
- Neighbourhood collections in Tanner Ridge and Saanichton, December 14th, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Drop-offs at Central Saanich Fire Station #1 (1512 Keating Cross Road) and Municipal Hall, December 9th–13th, 8:30 a.m–4:30 p.m.
North Saanich:
- Neighbourhood collection in Dean Park and Eaglehurst, December 14th, 1:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
- Drop-offs at North Saanich Fire Hall #1 (986 Wain Road) and Hall #2 (1665 McTavish Road) until December 15th, 8 a.m.–4 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Residents can participate in neighbourhood drive-throughs by handing donations to firefighters or leaving items on their doorstep for collection.
For a list of most-needed items, visit the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank website’s ‘12 Days of Christmas Giving” page.
