Big White matching donations to the food bank this holiday season

Big White Ski Resort is getting into the holiday spirit by supporting the Central Okanagan Food Bank (COFB).

For every dollar donated to the COFB through this link over the holiday season, Big White will match it.

The goal is to raise $16,000, but that number could go up.

Big White’s contribution is entirely made up of money raised through the sale of the resort’s old gondolas, and as more are sold there will be more money to donate to the food bank.

“At this time of year, more than any other time of year, generosity of spirit goes a long way,” said Michael J. Ballingall, Senior Vice President of Big White Ski Resort Ltd.

“The holidays can be financially challenging for everyone, and with the rising cost of food, it’s more important than ever to ensure all families, from all financial backgrounds, have a meal on their table.”

The COFB can triple donations through partnerships with grocery retailers, which means the $16,000 will translate into roughly $48,000 in spending capital.

That money is much-needed, as the food bank is seeing fewer donations come in than ever before.

In addition, due to skyrocketing inflation and a high cost of living, food bank use is no longer just reflecting the unemployment rate for the first time since the 1980s.

“There are many individuals and families in our community who are facing challenging situations right now, but your donation will help spread holiday cheer and brighten the lives of those who need it the most,” explained Trevor Moss, CEO of the COFB.

“To anyone that is choosing to donate, please know that you are making a huge difference and we thank you.”

In 2022, the COFB averaged 200 new clients per month, 66% of which were people who worked full-time, or multiple part-time jobs, and still couldn’t make ends meet.