Kamloops Food Bank executive director Bernadette Siracky says the city donated a record-breaking 70,000 lbs of non-perishable goods for the 24th year of the food drive.

“What was interesting this year was we had far fewer volunteers. We were just working with our regular staff, a few volunteers, and our board of directors, and honestly we all heard stories today of just true emotion from Rotarians around how much food was in their vehicles,” she says, “They were really touched by the generosity of this city, and I think it’s all within this context of knowing that it could be really any one of us needing to be here. It was really powerful today.”

Given the history of Kamloops residents making sure fundraisers can find some success, Siracky says she had a feeling the city would support the Food Bank in a big way this spring – despite some financial uncertainty households may be facing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She says the Food Bank already had four seacans ready for storage, and Big Steel Box dropped off another three for donation storage. According to Siracky, all seven were filled today.

“So Kamloops, thank you so much – we are set.” Siracky exclaims, “We are set for the next six months to ensure that no matter the need that comes to our door, we’re going to be able to meet it. Thank you, thank you.”

If anyone forgot to put out a bag, or their street was missed by volunteers, donations can still be dropped off at the Food Bank at 181 Wilson Street, or in donation bins at local grocery stores.