As the Nicola Valley and District Food Bank prepares for one of the busiest times of the year, the Hands of Hope Christmas Drive is getting set to collect. This Sunday will mark the third year the group has hit the streets to ask Merrittonaians for non-perishable food and new toys for the city’s less fortunate.
This is the third year that the drive will take place, gathering at the parking lot on Voght Street next to the Baillie House at 3:30 p.m. before dispersing to every part of the city.
For organizers Claudette Edenoste and Rae Robinson, this is an exciting time of year.
“It only takes about an hour, and then everybody comes together and the trucks are full and there’s a perfect place back there to unload,” said Edenoste. “And we’re just waiting, anticipating how many pounds are we going to get for the food bank, wondering if we’ve outdone ourselves from the previous year — it’s very, very exciting.”
They said more companies are getting involved than in previous years, donating their time knocking on doors as well as food and hot drinks for the volunteers after the event. The drive’s headquarters is the Merritt Royal LePage office on Quilchena Avenue, where Edenoste works.
The Centennials are also involved, recruited for their strength. During one of their organizing meetings, someone suggested they contact the hockey team. “It was like a marriage made in heaven,” said Edenoste.
“Collectively we’re making a difference in the community,” she continued. “It’s not just a company or a few individuals — it’s collectively, and that’s the power of this.”
The first year, the drive collected 4,470 pounds of food and toys. Last year, that jumped to 5,088.
Food bank manager Marlene Fenton said the drive’s contribution is invaluable.
“It’s the largest food drive that happens in Merritt,” said Fenton. “It’s kind of neat because it’s a variety that gets donated, specialty items and stuff like that,” she said, listing popcorn, pickles and olives — treats that someone might not get for themselves if they’re on a budget.
The food bank just finished collecting applications for the Christmas hamper program, and have an ongoing winter outerwear program ongoing. Fenton said they’re always looking for donations, during the drive or at the food bank location on Quilchena Avenue.
Drop boxes made by the fire department are expected to go out this week at Canadian Tire and Wal Mart, where donations can also be deposited.
They’ll be looking at the applications to determine where the need is greatest this week, though Fenton did say that a preliminary look indicates a greater need this year across the board.
