Fundraising event at Gibsons Legion draws more than 220 people; one room at Legion is filled with donations in kind
The big room at the Gibsons Legion was packed Saturday night with people eager to donate money, bedding, new clothes, toiletries, towels and shoes for the fire victims.
Last Wednesday, a fire swept through one of the buildings at the Park Rise condo complex at 689 Park Road in Gibsons. No one was seriously injured, but eight families lost virtually everything. The fire may have been caused by a barbecue.
Rhiannon Moss, who works at the Legion and whose cousin lost everything on Wednesday, discussed a fundraiser with Gibsons Legion president Wilma Jones the next day. Within 48 hours, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 109 organized the well-attended event. The branch also donated the hall and kitchen at their expense, and many volunteers lend a hand for the event.
More than 220 people paid $20 for a burger and a beer. The Blackfish Pub, Sysco, IGA and Supervalu donated the food items while London Drugs supplied cutlery and plates. The Gibsons Copy Shop donated posters. Fromagerie de Baie donated their takings for the day. The band A.D.D., featuring Michelle Morand, provided live music free of charge. Other companies and individuals made significant cash donations.
The donated goods will go to Christian Life Assembly; the affected families will pick what they need. Anything not used will go to the Salvation Army.
Moss asks readers of The Coast Clarion not to bring more goods to the Legion as the room is full. Cash donations, cheques and gift cards can be dropped off at the Legion this week.