THUNDER BAY – In addition to providing a Christmas time boos to regional food banks, a food drive this weekend should have one additional benefit.
With police officers stationed outside the stores collecting donations, would-be shoplifters will likely think twice before breaking the law.
Members from a number of local law enforcement agencies will donate their time this Saturday outside the Real Canadian Superstore, Walmart on Memorial Avenue and Metro locations on Arthur Street and River Street for their stuff a cruiser campaign in support of the Regional Food Distribution Association.
OPP Const. Diana Cole said this is the fourth year for the fundraiser in Thunder Bay, which is supported by officers from the provincial police force as well as the Thunder Bay Police Service, RCMP, Anishinabek Police Services, Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, CN and CP Police.
“It’s a great thing for all of us to get together and provide for our communities,” she said. “The RFDA supports 37 food banks in the whole region. It’s very important we support everybody and help to provide for those in need.”
Brendan Carlin, RFDA community services manager, said the partnership with law enforcement is a valuable one.
“It’s one thing for us to ask for food throughout the year but it’s quite an honour to have our police officers ask on our behalf and help us out that way,” he said.
“They know we work with a lot of these communities and a lot of the people who are in need and are in trouble and they want to give back.”
Last year’s event raised more than 14,000 pounds of food and about $4,000 in cash donations.
The food drive will run from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
