The No Frills parking lot in Kitimat buzzed with community spirit Dec. 7 as the RCMP's Cram the Cruiser event collected donations to support local families in need. By day’s end, the police cruiser overflowed with nine shopping carts filled with food, toys, and essential items. The effort also raised $1,868 in cash contributions.
“We’d like to remind people that may find themselves in need to reach out; we have a community here that cares and wants to help,” said Sgt. Robert Gardner.
The event showcased Kitimat’s generosity, with families, individuals, and businesses turning out to make the drive a success. Organizers thanked all contributors for their assistance and participation..
During the Cram the Cruiser event, a live podcast was hosted inside the store, providing a platform to engage with the community and highlight the importance of the initiative. The podcast featured a variety of local voices, who explained the significance of the drive and the broader goals of supporting the food bank. “It’s a great way to involve everyone and give recognition to those who help make this possible,” said Kyle MacGillivray, owner of No Frills.
The Cram the Cruiser initiative serves as the RCMP's contribution to No Frills’ broader month-long campaign, “Biggest Haul of Them All.” Unique to the Kitimat store, the campaign raises money through a combination of in-store initiatives and community sponsorships. Throughout December, customers are invited to make small donations at the till during checkout, with all proceeds going to the local food bank. Additionally, local businesses and families can purchase sponsorship packages starting at $200, which include having their names displayed on signs in the store and mentions on social media.
The timing of the campaign is critical, as food banks often experience their greatest strain after the holidays. “The real goal of this has always been to help the food bank, not just for Christmas, but because the biggest demand is in January and February. This really starts the food bank off for the year,” MacGillivray said.
With strong community participation, ongoing till donations, and the success of the Cram the Cruiser event, the campaign remains on track to meet its $20,000 goal
