North Okanagan Realtors Launch Christmas in July Food Drive to Support Local Food Bank

Strategic Insights -

The North Okanagan Realtor Committee has launched a food drive to support the North Okanagan Food Bank, which has seen a surge in demand for food assistance. The inaugural Christmas in July Food Drive aims to collect non-perishable food items from July 14-19. The drive is a response to the dire need for food assistance in the community, with over 1,100 people receiving monthly assistance from the Vernon food bank.

Key Takeaways:

  • The North Okanagan Realtor Committee is organizing the Christmas in July Food Drive to collect non-perishable food items for the North Okanagan Food Bank.
  • The drive is a response to the growing demand for food assistance in the community, with over 1,100 people receiving monthly assistance from the Vernon food bank.
  • Local real estate brokerages across the North Okanagan will serve as drop-off hubs for non-perishable food items throughout the week.
  • The top 10 most needed items include milk, meat products, breads, and fresh fruits and vegetables, which need to be brought directly to the existing food bank at 3303 32nd Ave.
  • Non-perishable items such as boxed grains, peanut butter, school snacks, soups, pasta sauces, and hygiene products are also in high demand.

Statistics:

  • Over 1,100 people receive monthly assistance from the Vernon food bank.
  • $500,000 is still needed to cover the remaining costs of the new food bank warehouse on 24th Street.
  • Construction on the new warehouse started in March and is expected to wrap up in September.

Sources:

  • Vernon Morning Star, July [no date specified] (2025)