Pirate Paks turn out treasure

Photo: Carmen Weld

The seventh-annual Pirate Pak Day has turned into a real treasure as White Spot raised a record $105,748 in loot for charity.

According to White Spot, buccaneers of all ages showed up in record numbers on Wednesday to support the annual fundraiser that helps send kids and young adults with life-threatening illnesses and chronic disabilities to Zajac Ranch for Children in Mission, B.C.

Bounty raised this year will help send 70 children and young adults to the ranch.

Since the program’s inception, White Spot has raised a total of $555,748, providing hundreds of young mateys with a summer camp experience.

This year’s event saw a record number of 52,874 Pirate Paks sold, with the location at 19651 Fraser Highway in Langley selling the most iconic boats, at nearly 3,000.

White Spot staff and enthusiastic guests dressed up as modern day swashbucklers for a good cause.

“It’s amazing to see the momentum of Pirate Pak Day build year after year,” said White Spot president Warren Erhart.

“Our staff members have a great time getting dressed up in pirate regalia for a good cause, and we enjoy some friendly competition between restaurants to see who can serve the most Pirate Paks. I’d like to extend a warm thank you to all our guests who came out to show their support.”

White Spot will be sending kids to Zajac Ranch for “White Spot Week” from Aug. 15 to 19, where campers can participate in a variety of activities such as horseback riding, kayaking, water sports and arts and crafts.

“White Spot continues to provide much-needed financial support to the children and young adults who visit our summer camp,” said Mel Zajac, founder of the Zajac Ranch for Children.

“Just as our camp provides an unforgettable experience to these youngsters, so many British Columbians have fond memories of Pirate Paks growing up. Hats off to White Spot for organizing another successful fundraiser!”