Fort St. John RCMP BBQ fundraiser raises more than $40,000 for Tumbler Ridge

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — A BBQ fundraiser held by the Fort St. John RCMP raised more than $40,000 for those affected by the February 10th school shooting in Tumbler Ridge.

In a February 19th press release, the Fort St. John RCMP said the fundraiser, held at the city’s detachment on February 14th, was a “huge success.”

The BBQ was first announced on February 12th, following the deadly shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and a local residence two days before, which left nine people, including the suspect, dead and more than two dozen others injured.

According to the detachment, more than $30,000 was donated by residents and local businesses during the event itself. 

As of Wednesday, February 18th, continued contributions had pushed the total to over $40,000.

Over 600 hamburgers were cooked and served to attendees during the event. A large card was also created for Fort St. John residents to sign, which the RCMP plans to send to Tumbler Ridge along with the financial support.

Event organizer Jeannie Whitford-Bonin and members of the Fort St. John RCMP thanked the 26 volunteers who donated their time, as well as local businesses that contributed food, barbecues, tents and portable washroom facilities.

“I want to thank everyone who stepped up for this fundraiser, the generosity shown by our residents, volunteers and businesses is truly remarkable,” said Sergeant Jaime Moffat, acting officer in charge of the Fort St. John RCMP. 

“Your support will make a meaningful difference for the Tumbler Ridge community during a tragic time, and we are grateful to serve a region that stands together so strongly.”

The RCMP says donations are still being accepted until February 28th. Cash and cheques can be dropped off at the detachment’s front counter at 10712 100th Street, and e-transfers can be sent to ediv-fsj-scarlettrecclub@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. 

Police thanked Fort St. John for “being the kind of community that shows up when it matters most.”