Extra Helping Holiday Food Drive

Thanks to the year-round efforts of campaigns like Five Hole for Food, the Greater Vancouver Food Bank (and food banks across Canada) stay top of mind. It’s during the holidays however that the pinch is felt the most for many and food banks really need your help to keep the shelves stocked. Real Canadian Superstore is making it as convenient as possible for you to give, helping those who could use the support this season.

On November 23, the Extra Helping™ Holiday Food Drive kicks off in Metro Vancouver, BC and across Canada. Until December 13, 2012, you can make a donation at any Real Canadian Superstore, noFrills and Extra Foods store by bringing nutritious, non-perishable food items to drop into the in-store Extra Helping donation bins, or by making a cash donation at the check-out. Donations made within Metro Vancouver will stay in Metro Vancouver helping ensure neighbours are helping neighbours.

Participating stores will also be selling a specially designed $5 PC Blue Menu Deluxe Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese Dinners for $5. This box will equal 4 food items and a $1 donation. Just pay for it at the check-out and drop it in the Extra Helping donation bin on your way out.

The Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society helps 27,000 individuals each week, 26 percent are children. Food distribution is up this year but food donations are down. In British Columbia, the most needed, non-perishable items include: canned proteins such as fish and meat, meals in a tin like hearty stews, dry whole wheat pasta, rice, canned fruit and vegetables, meals in a box, macaroni and cheese, whole grain cereal, granola bars, baby food and formula.

Find a participating store location online and check out the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, Surrey Food Bank, Share Society (Tri-Cities), and the Richmond Food Bank to learn more about upcoming campaigns in your area. You can also make food bank donations at the Vancouver and Surrey Santa Claus parades on December 2nd.