Only nine more sleeps until Christmas morning.
We’re a little anxious to get all the pennies counted in time to help families with our annual Pennies for Presents fundraising drive, which ends tomorrow (Dec. 16).
Volunteers at Berwick on the Lake are rolling the coins donated so far, while Pete MacDonald and Ian Thorpe stop off at the many community drop off points to pick up donations.
Money raised from the annual drive helps three charities – the Great Nanaimo Toy Drive, the Salvation Army and the Nanaimo Boys and Girls Club – buy gifts for children at Christmas.
Pennies for Presents, supported by Black Press Vancouver Island, the News Bulletin’s parent company, began in 1996 with the goal to ensure no child is left empty handed on Christmas morning.
Schools, businesses, community groups and individuals from across the city participate annually, raising an average of $10,000 each year. Last year, we raised more than $8,000 and are hoping to get back up to that $10,000 level again.
There’s still time to contribute to Pennies for Presents – simply drop off donations at the News Bulletin office, 777 Poplar St., or InPrint downtown, John’s Bedroom Barn, Northridge Fitness, Canadian Tire, Sink or Swim Scuba, La-Z-Boy, Royal LePage at Brooks Landing, Coast Realty downtown, Cline medical centre or Quality Foods University Village/Harewood.
For more information, please call 250-734-4627.
For previous stories, or to upload photos of you collecting for Pennies for Presents, please visit www.facebook.com/penniesforpresents.
arts@nanaimobulletin.com