The renowned giving from Cranbrook’s residents and businesses has gone to a new level.

The Cranbrook and District Chamber of Commerce’s annual Turkey Drive fundraiser, which collects $20 (per turkey) donations from people, culminating in a one-day frenzy of turkey sales by volunteers (Dec. 4), saw its previous record smashed, announced ‘head turkey’ Jason Wheeldon Dec. 10.

Led once again in sales by Nella Rounsville, who brought in about $14,000 herself, chamber volunteers and staff efforts resulted in $40,600 being raised for food hampers for the Salvation Army and Cranbrook Food Bank.

Turkey Drive co-chair Warren Bedell said the funds raised will be split by the Salvation Army and Cranbrook Food Bank. The organizations recommended prior to the drive that 750 food hampers are needed for Cranbrook this Christmas, with each one valued at about $100.

The chamber’s efforts will cover 54% of that cost.

The drive raised $27,635 last year.

Incoming chamber manager David Hall commended the chamber and city for its generosity, noting the funds brought in, per capita, far exceed anything larger cities, such as in the Lower Mainland, would be able to achieve.

The Salvation Army and Cranbrook Food Bank can always use donations, especially during the Christmas season.

Pictured above, from left: Warren Bedell, Nella Rounsville, Nancy Lemire (Salvation Army), Jason Wheeldon, Gerry Oviatt (Cranbrook Food Bank) and Karin Penner.

Ian Cobb/e-KNOW

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