THUNDER BAY - There were some real concerns that the tires on Kelly Fettes’ car would give out under the weight of more than 70 turkeys. But she was assured that just as long as she didn’t hit any bumps, those turkeys would get to where they are needed most.
On Saturday, Leadership Thunder Bay held its 3rd Annual Turkey Drive, loading up 75 turkeys from No Frills on Dawson Road, destined for the Regional Food Distribution Association.
“Last year we raised $1,500,” said Leadership Thunder Bay president, Matthew Villella. “This year we are at $2,000 and we are purchasing 75 turkeys today and all the fixings and hopefully more for local families.”
The money was raised from graduates of Leadership Thunder Bay, as well as family, friends, and the community at large.
With the $1,500 total last year, 52 turkeys and all the trimmings were donated to the RFDA, but with an extra $500 this year, Villella was happy to provide even more food to people in need during this holiday season.
“I would hope it would mean that 75 families get turkeys and food that normally wouldn’t be there,” he said. “I know they are struggling with getting food in and this is a good way to help out.”
“Leadership Thunder Bay prides ourselves on community leadership,” Villella continued. “A couple of years ago we discussed that this would be a good way to give back to the community. We are excited to be here and a way to provide 75 turkeys for local families.”
Partnering with No Frills for the last two years has been very beneficial, Villella added, with storeowner, Shawn Capnerhurst, providing the food at cost.
“It’s something I always believed strongly in,” Capnerhurst said. “When I went to a franchise store, I thought it was a great opportunity to help more in the community. It’s such a growing need. More families need help feeding themselves.”
“I feel privileged that Kelly [Fettes] came to me and picked a local store like me to help with this,” Capnerhurst continued. “I hope it’s a tradition that keeps continuing.”
Capnerhurst added that he feels like the neighbourhood corner store and is always happy to help out the community in anyway he can.
And while some customers were surprised to see so many turkeys being loaded into cars, Capnerhurst assures his customers that there are still plenty of turkeys left in the store, with the 75 turkeys for donation being specially ordered.
“Anytime we can do something like this, we try to participate,” he said. “Anytime you can help local families, I’m all for it.”
