Thunder Bay shoppers were in a generous mood on Saturday.
Const. Julie Tilbury, spokeswoman for the Thunder Bay Police Service, said the combination of a giving community and warmer-than-usual weather played a role in how much food collected at the annual Stuff a Cruiser drive.
“It’s just shining through what this community will do for people who maybe don’t have as much or are a little less fortunate today,” Tilbury said on Saturday afternoon.
“Especially with the weather today, people are in a great mood. People have been donating, whether it’s cash or canned goods, and it’s just been so amazing.”
Being in law enforcement, Tilbury said they work with hundreds of families in need during the course of the year. A chance to give back is something officers are proud to do each year.
“I think being able to do anything for the community, just to show the good side of our community is so beneficial and this year’s event is outstanding.”
The drive, which ends at 4 p.m., was a major success, she added.
“I don’t know how much food has been collected. I’ve been to a couple of areas. We’ve had a couple of cube vans full. It was crazy when we were over at Wal-Mart. People were walking out with grocery carts full of food and pushing it toward us saying, ‘It’s all yours.’”
Donations were also accepted at the Real Canadian Superstore, and Metro locations on Arthur and River streets.
Const. Diana Cole of the Ontario Provincial Police said the support has been amazing.
“The Regional Food Distribution Agency boxes have been packed. We’re so pleased with the generosity of the public and we really want to thank everyone for supporting us in this food drive.”
The success is not surprising, Cole said.
“That’s just the kind of people we have in Thunder Bay. They are generous, kind and we embrace that about the city of Thunder Bay. The public is fantastic and we really love their support,” she said.
The RFDA supports food banks throughout Northwestern Ontario.
