Drive thru raises $25k

UPDATE 2:15 p.m.

The final tally is in. This year's United Way Drive Thru Breakfast raised $25,134!

ORIGIAL 9:45 a.m.

The annual United Way Southern Interior BC Drive Thru Breakfast was back at the Penticton Lakeside resort Thursday morning, with lineups of cars stretching down the block from 6 a.m. through to 9 a.m.

"Oh it's been so busy again, thank you South Okanagan for joining us again this year," marketing and events manager Marianne Dahl said.

Even the pouring rain didn't dampen the spirits of those who came to volunteer, and those who lined up to donate. Shortly before 9 a.m., they were fast approaching the sale of 1,000 adult breakfast bags and 100 children's breakfast bags, provided by donation. 

"It supports about 17, 18 local charities, and that's thousands of vulnerable people in the community," Dahl explained. 

Bags full of donated goodies, prizes and promos from sponsors, hot drinks and cinnamon buns were all available for pickup by individuals and businesses alike.

The largest donation of the day came from CRA, who purchased 114 bags for $2,280. In total, they raised well over $20,000, and surpassed last year's total number of bags sold. 

Dahl said it would all be impossible without their sponsors and volunteers.

"Yesterday we had 30-plus people volunteering, today we probably have 30-plus people volunteering," she said. "We can't thank people enough for being here today to help us."