THUNDER BAY — A campaign organized by Leadership Thunder Bay has collected enough money to provide a Christmas feast for 85 needy families in the city.
The Leadership Thunder Bay Turkey Drive was launched four years ago by then-President Kelly Fettes and Vice-President Matthew Villella, both graduates of the 10-month leadership course.
This year proved to be the most successful campaign so far, bringing in about $2,500 which will go toward the purchase of turkeys and all the fixings for a traditional Christmas dinner.
Leadership Thunder Bay board members stuff their vehicles with the groceries and deliver them to the Regional Food Distribution Association.
"The turkey drive has become one of the staple activities of the LTB yearly calendar, as we all believe that a strong community is a caring community," Villella said.
Newly-elected president Kristina Baraskewich said plans are already underway for next year's drive, with the goal of providing meals for more than 100 families.
The Leadership Thunder Bay curriculum includes learning about critical issues such as poverty, homelessness and mental illness, among other topics.
