Every year, hundreds of BWG families find themselves struggling to make ends meet. From disadvantaged youth to senior citizens who just can’t seem to get by on their pension, many are finding themselves at a loss and in need of help.
The Bradford Food Bank, officially known as the Helping Hand Food Bank, is a registered charity whose mission is to provide free groceries to clients in our community who are in need.
With the continued growth in BWG, the need for help is always on the rise. Thanks to groups like the Back Alley Cruisers, that need can be met.
With 10 chapters in Ontario and one in Saskatchewan, Back Alley Cruisers can be regularly seen around the Bradford Library for their Friday Cruise Nights.
This past weekend, car owners, builders and enthusiasts fired up their engines and headed to the Georgian Bay Steam Show grounds in Cookstown for the 26th annual Pre-Snow Car Show.
Each year, hundreds of vintage and custom modified cars and trucks come together under the Back Alley Cruisers banner to wrap up the season with one last big event.
Gord Houston, one of the event organizers, has been with the group since it started back in 1994.
“Average turnout for these events runs between 400-800 cars,” explained Houston. “This gives us the opportunity to give back to the community and help the Bradford Food Bank with thousands in donations and truckloads of food.”
“This isn’t just a hobby,” he said, “It’s a passion!”
That passion isn’t going to end any time soon. With Houston’s son Garrett actively involved in the organization and his grandchildren following in his footsteps, the Bradford Food Bank can look forward to enjoying the benefits of these events for years to come. In addition to the food items, the group raised over $4,000 for the food bank.
Anyone who was unable to attend the Pre-Snow Car Show but wishes to make a donation to the food bank, can click here to reach the Bradford Food Bank directly.
Donations are gratefully accepted, and any cash or cheque donation over $20 is eligible for a tax receipt.
