Some festive fun will be pulling into Chatham today.
This is the 25th year of the CP Holiday Train. Since it launched in 1999, the campaign has raised more than $22.4 million and collected 5.15 million pounds of food to support those in need across the country.
Locally, donations of cash, non-perishable food, and other items will benefit Chatham’s Outreach for Hunger.
Executive Director Brenda LeClair says the event has a huge impact on the local food bank.
“The financial support that we receive from CP Rail goes a long way with us for our buying power. We are constantly watching for sales and working out deals where we can get the best price and then we can buy in bulk. It’s a win-win for all of us.”
When it comes to what the food bank needs most, LeClair suggests donors draw inspiration from their own grocery list.
“I seem to say this every year, but it’s pretty much whatever you want on your table, families who come to see us want it on theirs.”
LeClair says Outreach has received some very generous donations of canned tomato products, but any other non-perishable grocery items or personal care items are always greatly appreciated.
The CP Holiday Train will be stopping behind the Bradley Convention Centre at 2:30 this afternoon.
This year’s edition will feature Australian band Seaforth and Canadian singer-songwriter Kiesza.
