Christmas spirit was overflowing as North Okanagan residents opened their doors.
The 39th annual Realtors Food Drive was held Wednesday in Greater Vernon, Armstrong and Enderby.
“North Okanagan residents are truly amazing,” said Dawn Taylor, food drive co-ordinator.
In Greater Vernon, about 21,500 pounds of food were collected Wednesday for the Salvation Army food bank and another 1,500 pounds was anticipated Thursday.
“We can provide so much to our clients,” said Stefan Reid, with the Salvation Army.
“We can provide hope when they are hopeless.”
About 25 families a day are helped in Vernon, and it’s anticipated that 855 hampers could be handed out for Christmas.
“This will take us right into April and May,” said Reid.
In Enderby, food donations have stocked the shelves while cash was also collected Wednesday.
“This community is a very giving and supportive community in so many ways,” said Scott Hemenway, with the Feed Enderby and District Food Bank.
About 145 households or 325 individuals have already registered for Christmas hampers.
“Well over one-third of those are kids still in school,” said Hemenway.
“So those who gave food or money this year will be helping to provide for a good Christmas experience for many families and individuals in our community. “
Items collected in Armstrong go to the Okanagan Boys and Girls Club food bank
“It went fantastic,” said Elizabeth Coss, food bank manager.
While final weighing was still being done Tuesday, about 7,000 pounds of food were collected.
“That build up the main part for our Christmas hampers,” said Coss.
It’s estimated that between 120 and 125 Christmas hampers could be handed out.
“For Armstrong and Spallumcheen, that’s significant,” said Coss.