RCMP in Queens are working with the community to clamp down on hunger this Christmas.

The annual stuff the cruiser event is taking place again this weekend.

Each year, RCMP and their community partners gather donations for the Queens County Food Bank.

Queens-Shelburne MLA Kim Masland has been involved for the past four years and says the community really gets behind the event.

“Oh my gosh, yes, we definitely stuff more than one cruiser. Last year, I forget the actual pounds we had but it was very significant,” said Masland.

In fact, the donations overflowed the cruiser and stuffed two other vehicles.

Masland said support also comes in the form of grocery store gift cards and last year they received around $1,100 in gift cards and cash.

Usually, the event would be a great opportunity to socialize and wish each other well over the holidays but, like so much of 2020, COVID-19 has changed that.

“We would have hot chocolate that’s donated by Tim Hortons, coffee by McDonalds, Superstore always has sandwiches, that type of stuff, and we’d have carollers there. This year, we’re not going to be able to do all of that,” said Masland. “But we’ll still be there with smiles on our faces, spreading our Christmas cheer and hope that we get to see you pop off a donation.”

Masland said the donations will support all of Queens County as the Liverpool food bank will be helping to supply the Caledonia food bank in North Queens as well.

At this time of year, Masland said people can feel good about helping their neighbours.

“It certainly makes your heart happy and very full,” said Masland. “You know, since becoming the MLA it has become a real eye-opener for me to see the number of people around me in my community that struggle just to make ends meet.”

Masland said there’s a large amount of poverty in Queens. There are children who go to school hungry, parents choosing between paying the power bill or their rent and feeding their families.

It’s good for people to remember that spirit of Christmas giving throughout the year.

“It’s really important and it’s who we are. Nova Scotians are very friendly, caring compassionate people. And in Queens County, through the pandemic, we saw that,” said Masland. “People really opened their arms up and they wrapped them around people. We can’t do that now because of COVID, but we look after each other.”

Masland said she’ll be at the Liverpool Superstore alongside RCMP Constable Ron Duffney on Saturday between 10:00am and 2:00pm to receive donations.

Donations can also be made in advance at Superstore or left at Masland’s office 271 Main Street in Liverpool.

Reported by Ed Halverson 
E-mail: edhalversonnews@gmail.com
Twitter: @edwardhalverson