As part of a North American effort to help feed those in need, the 400-plus members of Squamish Curves have donated 1,256 pounds of food to the Squamish Food Bank while losing some of their own pounds in the process.
The food drive promotion was held at three different Curves locations - Squamish, Sechelt and Gibsons - who all competed to see who could raise the most amount of food for their respective local food banks.
The premise was simple: bring in a bag of non-perishable food and the one-time $199 lifetime membership fee would be waived. For existing members, an incentive program was offered. If they worked out at least three times a week for the month of March, and lost either five pounds or five inches from their waistline, they received a free "Food for Friends" t-shirt.
"They really pitched in and supported the idea when they knew it was for the local food bank," said Curves manager Tina Jensen. "They went out of their way and brought in anything you could think of."
This is the sixth consecutive year in which all of the Curves franchises (a women's only fitness club) throughout North America have been involved in the community fundraiser. Last year alone, the Curves promotion raised more than four million tons of food.
"It's really great that they're community-oriented and want to help those in need," said Squamish Food Bank director Joan Forry. "It's fantastic that they are continuing to support the community - it's very generous."
The donated food is distributed to more than 150 families and individuals on the second Wednesday of every month by Food Bank volunteers.
"This really helps those who need it the most," said Forry.
