News of the Chilliwack food bank shortage has travelled fast, and people are taking action.
Community members have started creating fundraising efforts in order to help the Chilliwack Salvation Army supply enough food to sustain the increased demand.
One local business that has stepped up is Studio B Yoga. Crystal Hasell, studio director, said "we saw the article and figured we could easily put something together to help."
She immediately came up with a fundraising project for her studio. By Wednesday morning, she had an event created on Facebook, a notice put out through Studio B Yoga's social media and newsletter, and a basket set up in the studio.
Until August 31, anyone who brings in a food donation will be entered to win a one-month unlimited studio pass. Each item donated equals another entry, with no limit to the number of entries available per person.
"We have the traffic and the ability to help, so we thought 'why not?'," said Hasell. The fundraiser aligns with the studio's goal to be balanced, mindful and to give back. They will also be providing a free, weekly yoga class beginning Sept 12.
Donations can be dropped off at the studio (#8-45540 Market Way) before or after one of their 28 scheduled weekly classes.
If you prefer to rock out while being charitable, there's a place for you as well.
Duncan Mattila has organized a fundraising show at the Echo Room Night Club for Saturday night. He and Kevin Gemmell of 89.5 The Drive have been working on this idea since July.
For just $10, the show will feature three local bands, Rockabilly Jay & The Cadillac Bones (playing rockabilly), Of Lesser Evil (metal), and The Brian West Band (classic rock), who have all donated their time.
All proceeds will be donated to the food bank. Those who bring a food donation will receive a "small token of our appreciation," while supplies last, said Mattila.
The show starts at 9 p.m. at the Echo Room (9282 Main Street). Matilla hopes to make this an annual event.
Many other individuals and groups have also donated. Well done, Chilliwack, for stepping up and coming together to help our local food bank. The shortage has reached dire levels this year and every little bit helps.
The most needed items are protein-rich canned meats, chunky soups and dried pasta. The Salvation Army Care & Share Centre is located at 45746 Yale Road.