CANSOFCOM collects 300 lbs of food donations for Petawawa Pantry Food Bank

By Patricia Leboeuf | December 16, 2021 | Local
Two women, one man stand holding boxes of food
On Dec. 9, members of Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM) dropped off about 300 lbs. of non-perishables for the Petawawa Pantry Food Bank. Accepting the donation from Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Erin Hayman (right) are volunteers Wayne O’Regan and Linda Holmwood. (Photo by Patricia Leboeuf, Petawawa Post)
Soldier stands on large box, hands bag of food to other soldier on ground
A member of CANSOFCOM hands MWO Hayman bags of food. (Photo by Patricia Leboeuf, Petawawa Post)

Christmas came early for the Petawawa Pantry Food Bank when Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM) dropped off more than 300 lbs. of food.

A tan Humvee pulled up to the Pantry’s doors on Dec. 9 with two full pallets of non-perishable items.

“I think it is a great outpouring from CANSOFCOM and we certainly appreciate it on behalf of the community,” said volunteer Wayne O’Regan.

He confirmed need in the community has grown, and such a substantial donation will help stock the Pantry’s shelves just in time for the holidays.

“We work and live in Petawawa, so we are one big happy community,” Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Erin Hayman said. “It is very gratifying to know that people take the time when they are at the grocery store to physically pick things up for the food bank.”

This food drive is long-standing tradition. Every year, drop boxes are placed on the CANSOFCOM lines, and members are encouraged to donate what they can.

“It gives everybody, right from Private to the CO (Commanding Officer), a chance to give back,” said MWO Hayman. “It’s just so amazing how much food we have this year - it’s really great.”

She was proud to see so much collected for the Pantry, and was grateful to all who donated.

The Pantry’s website has a list of products they most require including sanitary items, canned food, peanut butter, jam, condiments and cereal.

For more information please visit petawawapantryfood.wixsite.com/petawawapantry.