Community Generosity Multiplies Holiday Giving for Vernon Food Bank
A holiday event sparks a powerful wave of generosity for the Vernon Food Bank
What began as a festive night of networking turned into a powerful example of community generosity, as the Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s Jingle Mingle Business After 5 event sparked a ripple effect of giving that significantly boosted support for the Salvation Army Vernon Food Bank.
Held on December 20, the Chamber’s holiday gathering invited attendees to bring food or make a cash donation at the door. By the end of the evening, the Chamber had raised approximately $1,000 in cash donations and collected a substantial quantity of food for the Food Bank.
Inspired by the generosity shown at the event, the Community Foundation North Okanagan (CFNO) stepped forward with a matching commitment. While CFNO initially set out to match the Chamber’s $1,000, that commitment quickly grew.
Recognizing the urgency of food insecurity during the holiday season, CFNO Executive Director Leanne Hammond reached out to a small group of donors known for stepping up at year-end. Together, their collective response raised an additional $5,000, multiplying the impact of the Chamber’s original effort.
“We often see how a simple act of generosity can unlock something much bigger,” said Hammond. “The Chamber created the moment, and our donors helped turn it into a meaningful boost for families who need it most right now.”
CFNO extends heartfelt thanks to Nixon Wenger, the Chapman Family Foundation, and the Sharma Family for rising to the matching challenge and helping ensure the Food Bank can meet increased seasonal demand.
The combined effort highlights the power of donation-matching campaigns to inspire generosity, build momentum, and turn community events into lasting impact.
“As a community foundation, our role is often to connect people who care with opportunities to make a difference,” Hammond added. “This is a great example of how collaboration can stretch every dollar further.”
As CFNO celebrates 50 years of community philanthropy, the Foundation continues to invite residents to be part of solutions that respond to local needs. Those interested in amplifying future moments like this are encouraged to learn more about CFNO’s new Impact Fund, designed to respond to urgent and emerging community priorities: www.cfno.org/impact-fund.
