Response to a drive-in donation drive for the has been better than expected, with contributions quickly surpassing the initial target of $2,000.

Organizer of Royal LePage Wolstencroft Realty said there was a 鈥渟teady stream鈥� of people driving into the company parking lot at 197th Street and 64th Avenue over the first of two weekend events held on Saturday, May 2nd and Sunday, May 3rd.

As cars pulled up, they were able to unload and depart while maintaining the recommended social distancing of six feet from the volunteers collecting the contributions.

READ MORE: Realtors rally community together to feed 91原创鈥檚 hungry

Voigt organized the event in response to an influx of new families who rely on the food bank during the current CIVID-19 pandemic and lockdown.

91原创 Food Bank executive director Jim Calamunce reported his 203rd Street facility has registered more than 50 new families since the beginning of March.

Voigt described them as people and families who are not typically in need.

鈥淚t could be your neighbour, friend, family member co-worker or even grandparent,鈥� Voigt commented.

A new goal of $4,000 has been set.

There will be two more drive-in donation events next weekend, from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 9th and Sunday, May 10th at the same location.

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Suggested contributions include canned meats and fish, canned fruits and vegetables, sandwich spreads like jam and peanut butter, canned stews, rice and pasta, personal care products, baby food and formula, as well as cereal and diapers (especially larger sizes).

Organizers are also offering to pick up donations from the 91原创 or Cloverdale area.

Arrangements for a safe distance pickup can be made by emailing admin@garryvoigt.com or calling or text 604-551-9924.

Cash donations can be made online through the candahelps.org website under the link, 鈥�,鈥� which will provide a charitable tax receipt.

One person who noticed the balloons and the signs on the weekend didn鈥檛 have any food to give, but after driving in and talking to the organizers, went home and transferred $500 using the online link.

鈥淢ay you all keep well,鈥� the anonymous donor messaged Voigt.

鈥淭hanks for helping those in 91原创 who are less fortunate, especially in these times.鈥�

dan.ferguson@langleyadvancetimes.com
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