The annual Parksville Fire Rescue Fill the Boots for Food fundraiser has raised $94,090.70 in cash for the food bank, and a number of unwrapped toys were also donated.
The funds will be given to the Salvation Army food bank, and the toys will go to the Society of Organized Services.
Craig Bay residents got a special shoutout for raising $64,680 in cash for the fundraiser.
“On behalf of Parksville Fire Rescue members, my sincere gratitude to the residents of the Parksville Fire Protection Area for your generosity and to our members who each year support the Fill the Boots for Food drive with their time,” Fire Chief Marc Norris said. “Our members are extremely proud of the results and the difference their efforts continue to make in our community.”
In addition to donations from residents, Canadian Tire, Save-on-Foods, BC Liquor Store, Quality Foods and Thrifty Foods also made contributions, according to Parksville.
Anyone who missed the fundraiser but is still looking to donate can do so directly to the charities.
Society of Organized Services is accepting donations to its Caring for Community at Christmas program, which will provide gifts for children and youth and grocery store gift cards to families, adults and seniors. Financial donations can be made online, in person or by phone (250-248-2093). Toy donations can be dropped off at the SOS Community Services Centre in Parksville (245 Hirst Ave. West) and at Qualicum Commons (744 Primrose St., Qualicum Beach). Hours for the phone or in-person donations are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Salvation Army food bank donations can be made at 886 Wembley Rd., Monday to Friday from 8-11:30 a.m. and on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 1-3:30 p.m.
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