Media Release
The Wiarton Salvation Army Food Bank got a boost this week with the addition of 694 pounds of food generated by the annual H.O.P.E Day Food Drive at the Wiarton Family Chiropractic Centre.
What started as a simple idea to help a good cause has become a saving grace for the Wiarton Salvation Army Foodbank. With food bank demand hitting ever higher levels and current donations well below those seen at Thanksgiving and Christmas, this event at the Wiarton Family Chiropractic Centre is like a breath of fresh air for the Sally Ann.
H.O.P.E (Helping Other People Eat) is now in its twenty-fifth year, and to date this event has brought in an astounding 40,015 pounds of food. To put that into perspective, it is more than the combined weight of 8 fully grown black rhinos!
When asked how so much food could be generated in such a small town, event coordinator Dr. Steven Silk said “Results like these are a reflection of the character of the people in our community, and more specifically, those who use our services…they are a truly wonderful group of human beings. It never ceases to amaze me at just how big their hearts are, and they deserve the credit for making this event as successful as it is”.
The unfortunate truth is that there are far too many people who require this service. However, with events such as H.O.P.E Day, food banks can attempt to ensure that no one goes without food this winter.
Dr. Raelynn Cancel, who developed the concept for H.O.P.E. Day in 1996, was visibly moved as she noted “We are always humbled by the response to our food drive, and would like to thank everyone who brought something, no matter how big or how small, for you have all made a huge difference for the less fortunate in our area”.
