Calgary Food Bank Celebrates the 30th Anniversary of One of the City's Largest Food Raisers

CALGARY, AB--(Marketwired - December 01, 2015) - Calgary Food Bank, CBC and Suncor officially kicked-off the 30^th Annual CBC Calgary Suncor Food Bank Drive this morning. This year's campaign is especially important as Canada's HungerCount has reported an increase in food bank usage across the country, and Calgary is no exception. A 23% spike in clients this past year has organizers hoping to fill the Food Bank shelves for a busy holiday season.

To get the campaign started, Suncor announced a $50,000 donation towards this year's goal of $1 million. "Now, more than ever, it is essential that we continue to support and give back to those less fortunate within our communities," said Cathy Glover, director of community investment at Suncor. "Every year, the CBC Calgary Suncor Food Bank Drive is a tribute to the generosity, spirit and commitment of Calgarians, and I believe 2015 will be no exception."

Over the past 29 years, the campaign has raised more than $16.5 million. "This year's campaign feels different -- maybe it's the fact that this is the 30th anniversary, or the feeling that more people than usual could use some assistance. This year has been a tough one for our city, economically, and that burden is especially poignant this time of year," says Suzanne Waddell, manager, communications, marketing & brand, at CBC Calgary.

"2015 has been a challenging year for many." Calgary Food Bank CEO James McAra explains, "Unfortunately there are more families and individuals needing food support as they work through their crisis such as an unexpected illness or job loss. Expenses continue to stretch budgets and knowing there isn't enough money for things like a holiday dinner can be quite stressful."

CBC Calgary Suncor Food Bank Drive events will be held around the city from December 1 to December 24. For more information on events and where to donate, visit http://www.calgaryfoodbank.com/cbc-calgary-suncor-food-drive/.

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This release is transmitted courtesy of Marketwired.