Hunter’s first food drive exceeds 300 pounds

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. —  Fort St. John youngster Hunter Mackay collected 300 pounds of food for the Salvation Army during his first food drive this past Saturday.

Accompanied by his mother, Jolene Mackay, the eight-year-old travelled around the city to collect donations, such as non-perishable food items, toiletries and cash, from residents.

Jolene said the food collected exceeded the space in her minivan.

After the day-long excursion around the city, Jolene made light of the haul exceeding the room in her minivan in a Facebook post, saying, “We managed to get quite a lot of donations.”

Mackay apologized for being unable to get to everyone who reached out looking to contribute but noted in the post that she lives in an “incredible community.” 

The drive took place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on February 24th, with the donations being brought to the Salvation Army food bank on Monday.

Mackay was especially pleased with resident Kelly Fell, who was able to donate $100 in cash toward her son’s cause.

In response, Mackay acknowledged that Fell is participating in the FSJ Hospital Foundation’s Bluey Days in May and wrote, “she would love to return her support” when the time comes.

Head to the event’s Facebook page for more information on Hunter’s first food drive.