Kelowna

The fat man in the red suit is in town early this year.

On Monday, the Kelowna Community Food Bank’s Christmas in July banner was installed at Pandosy Street and Bernard Avenue for the 18th Annual Christmas in July Campaign, “A Season To Share.”

“Santa is coming out to help us spread the message in our community that the spirit of Christmas is one worthy of year ’round celebration – that helping our neighbours is not a seasonal undertaking, but an everyday opportunity for those of us who are able, to bring hope and help to others,” says Vonnie Lavers, Executive Director.

She says through community donations, the Food Bank is able to help those most vulnerable in our community with better nutrition and improved health.

“Imagine the sense of relief our recipients feel to know that people care enough to help make sure their children will eat a healthy supper tonight and a well-balanced lunch tomorrow. Working moms and dads, injured and disabled men and women, and seniors on fixed incomes can look forward to their next meal knowing their fridge and cupboards are stocked with the necessities that most of us take for granted.”

Lavers says the Food Bank encourages the community to get involved in helping those less fortunate.

Opportunities to help include:

• Vote for the Kelowna Community Food Bank’s Nutrition Improvement Programs on The Juicy Give. Simply log onto www.1039thejuice.com and cast your vote.
  
• Buy BC Coupons – purchase Buy BC Coupons from the checkout at your local grocery store. Every $2 purchase triples the Food Bank’s purchasing power.
  
• July 25 – Lunch Money Day – encourage colleagues to brown bag their lunch and donate what would have been spent on lunch to the Kelowna Food Bank.
  
• Donate proceeds from golf tournaments, garage sales and community events.
  
• Hold a food drive in your neighbourhood or at your workplace.
  
• Raffle for an employee “Day off with Pay.”
  
• Send a donation directly to the Kelowna Community Food Bank’s Christmas in July Campaign at 1265 Ellis Street, or donate online.