Feed the Valley

Photo: Contributed - Penticton Vees

Valley First and the Penticton Vees have once again partnered in the fight against hunger during the third annual Feed the Valley-sponsored game night being held at the South Okanagan Events Centre on Feb. 8.

“This is the third year we have partnered with the Penticton Vees to help Feed the Valley,” explains Valley First’s Iain MacIntyre. “We’ve had a tremendous response and collected more than 2,000 pounds of food during our sponsored games over the last two years. It’s terrific to see so many Pentictonites share Valley First’s commitment to supporting the community and we’re thrilled to be extending our sponsorship program.”

Hockey fans can support Feed the Valley and gain discounted arena entry by simply bringing a non-perishable food donation with them to the game. Valley First volunteers will be on-hand to collect donations.

During the intermissions, see another infamous Penticton rivalry continue.  Watch as Penticton’s very own R.C.M.P. and firefighters duke it out for bragging rights by competing in their own 20-minute hockey game!  Like the R.C.M.P. and firefighters, local schools have also been invited to compete.  Participating schools have the opportunity to win an additional $1500.00, courtesy of Underwriter’s Insurance.

• $500.00 to the school that has the highest game attendance
• $500.00 to the school that is the loudest at the game
• $500.00 to the school that has the most signs at the game

Pam Butters, SD67 director of instruction, student support services, says partnering with such community-minded organizations will provide a real boost to the district’s breakfast program.

“It’s an unfortunate fact that some students in our community don’t get enough to eat,” says Butters. “Joining forces with Valley First, the Vees, the RCMP and local firefighters during the Feed the Valley sponsored game night is a great way to strengthen our program in a fun and family-friendly way. I know many students and their families are looking forward to an exciting night out and being able to help their community.”

During 2012, Valley First and its employees donated more than $350,000 to various charities, events and community organizations as well as volunteering more than 1,100 hours of their own time. Additionally, Valley First strengthened its partnerships with local food banks, raising more than $85,000 and collecting 32,000 pound of food through its Feed the Valley program.