Western Forest Products’ total contribution of $100,000 to community groups includes $5,000 for the Chemainus Harvest House Food Bank.
Harvest House has been helping feed those in need for more than 20 years while facilitating self-sufficiency. This is the third year in a row Western has donated to Harvest House to support families during the holiday season.
“When our food bank opened its doors in 2002, no one imagined that 20 years later the need for our services would be greater than ever,” noted Marlene Hayes, board chair of the Chemainus Harvest House Food Bank Society.
“From small beginnings, we now provide weekly food distribution to individuals and families with children in four communities and this has only been possible due to the tremendous ongoing generosity of our community, including Western Forest Products.”
Harvest House Food Bank coordinator Emily Holmes and volunteer Doug Jensen were on hand for the cheque presentation from WFP’s Derek Haupt and Kevin Mcilveen.
The Cowichan Valley Basket Society in Duncan also received $5,000.
With the holidays around the corner, Western is embracing the spirit of giving to help provide meals and toys this season. By partnering with more than 30 charitable organizations and First Nations communities, the financial contribution will benefit those in need across the areas where the company operates in B.C. and Washington state.
“We are pleased to extend our year-long commitment to communities with this seasonal tradition again this year,” said Steven Hofer, WFP’s president and chief executive officer. “By partnering with community groups across the areas where we operate, we are able to lend a helping hand to those in need.”
The donations varied in amount depending on community size and need.