'Cram the Cruiser' back for Year Two Dec. 16 at Cherry Lane

There's no shortage at this time of year of good organizations and good people asking you to spare a few dollars, a little food or a toy or two for those who have less than you.

But next weekend, there's an event happening where the folks who protect you and enforce the rules are doing the asking. So it’s probably a pretty good time to say yes.

It unfolds Saturday, Dec. 16 in the parking lot of Cherry Lane Shopping Centre. It's called "Cram the Cruiser," and it'll see a bunch of firefighters, police officers and bylaw officers "cramming" whatever non-perishable food items and toys you bring them into a "cruiser."

A police cruiser, that is. And maybe a second one too if they get enough loot.

And then they hand everything they've gathered to the Salvation Army Food Bank.

“With last year’s first event such a success and folks showing so much generosity, we knew we wanted to return and bring a little happiness this holiday season,” said bylaw enforcement officer Travis Mills, one of the people PentictonNow met at the 2022 C the C debut.

“In our jobs, we see people all year who are having a challenging time and we know this has been a difficult period for many people. Last year, we were able to raise 1,002 lbs of food donations for the community and this year we're hoping to exceed that number.”

According to the Salvation Army, the "Most Wanted" items include stuff like crackers, soup, cereal, pasta, toiletries, Kraft Dinner, canned vegetables and canned proteins. And of course, financial donations and toys.

As a bonus for those who give, City of Penticton council members will be on site passing out hot chocolate.

Cram the Cruiser 2023 runs 12 pm to 4 pm, Saturday, Dec. 16 in the Cherry Lane Shopping Centre parking lot.