Like many food banks across the country, Sooke Food Bank has spent the past year in survival mode.
“2020 and the beginning of 2021 have been unprecedented for us,” said Kim Metzger, Sooke Food Bank president.
Fundraisers over the past ten months have become more crucial than ever to keep the shelves stocked.
This year, Edward Milne Community School’s annual ‘10,000 tonight’ fundraiser took on a different look due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“We had to pivot much like everyone else during this time,” said EMCS Vice-Principal Todd Powell.
Instead of the students going door-to-door and collecting non-perishable items, this year the fundraiser went virtual with a simple online auction and donate button.
The results far exceeded expectations.
“I was blown away,” said Powell, a long-time coordinator of the event. “When it hit seven thousand, eight thousand, nine thousand, we couldn’t believe it…And when the final number came in over eleven thousand dollars collected, it blew our mind.”
“I was so surprised and yet not surprised because they are a very determined group of kids,” said Metzger.
The total came to just over $11,200, but that amount will go even further, says Metzger, as the food banks buying power is often 2-3x greater than the initial dollar figure.
“This money is going to help get us through until April,” she noted.
In a trying year, the Edward Milne High School staff and students helped provide a lifeline for their small town in need.
“I honestly believe they’re a reflection of what a great community this is,” said Metzger.
Kevin Charach
