By Chad Klassen

Volunteers hand out Thanksgiving hampers at Kamloops Food Bank

Oct 5, 2016 | 3:05 PM

KAMLOOPS — Hundreds of people lined up at the Kamloops Food Bank on Wednesday, waiting for their turn to pick out the turkey, stuffing, and veggies they’ll need to make a full Thanksgiving dinner this weekend.

Volunteers at the Food Bank, including members of Broadcast Centre, coordinated the delivery of Thanksgiving hampers to people who may not otherwise be able to afford a Thanksgiving dinner. 

“This is a special day,” says Executive Director Bernadette Siracky. “We give out extra hampers on Thanksgiving, so we’re able to give out turkeys, ham, chicken breasts, and all the fixings for our clients. It’s very much looked forward to. We had a line-up this morning of literally a hundred people.”

B-100 and CIFM radio host Steve Ayres, who volunteered at the Food Bank, says it brought home the true message of Thanksgiving. 

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“It really sums up what Thankgiving is all about, and that’s being thankful for what you’ve got. We’re seeing a lot of people come through here today with their families. It’s just amazing to see all the food that’s been generously donated by the community. Kamloops really takes care of their own.”

The Food Bank says while days like today don’t change people’s situations, it gives them an immediate need. The Food Bank is also encouraged by the province’s committment last month of $500 million for new affordable rental housing in B.C.

“That’s very encouraging because our clients are coming here for food and are struggling with basic needs like housing and clothing,” says Siracky. “September just ended, so our families struggle with all the fees associated with going back to school. They are almost taking a sigh of relief that we are offering fully turkey dinners to them today, so they can go home and make it for their families.”