CBC B.C.'s Food Bank Day receives a record-breaking $2,721,112 in donations

For more than three decades, CBC Vancouver's annual Open House and Food Bank Day has raised money for those in need, and the tradition continued on Dec. 4with a safety-promotingtwist.

This year, the fundraising festivitieswereadapted soyoucouldwatch special broadcasts, meet your favourite CBCBritish Columbia hosts virtually, and donate to Food Banks B.C. all from the comfort of your home.

Donors were able to contribute until midnight Dec. 31.

The eventraised a total of $2,721,112, shattering previous years' totals.

"I'm still shocked," saidAnne Penman,CBC radio network producer andthe driving force behind the annual fundraiser.

In 2019, over $1 million was raised, bringing the 33-year total at that point to $10 million and in 2020, the need was greater than ever.

Since the start of the pandemic, over 50 per cent of provincial food banks have reported an increase in demand.

Many of us have been affected financially by the pandemic, limiting us in ways we might traditionally contribute. But there are many opportunities to spread generosity and kindness aside from making monetary donations.

In addition to raising funds for local food banks in 2020, CBC Vancouver alsoencouraged acts of kindness in the community to spread goodwill and cheer during an especially challenging holiday season.

You can also visit the Food Banks B.C.website to find your local food banksand learn about volunteeropportunities available in your community.