The annual Stuff A Bus fundraiser, which took place this past weekend at Parkland Mall, fell short of their goal to match the $40,000 raised during last year’s event.

The event raised about $28,000 which will go towards local charities, including the Red Deer Food Bank and the Red Deer Christmas Bureau.

Last year’s event blew records out of the water, organizers said, and they hoped to again reach record donation highs, but fell short by about $12,000.

“We were a little under what we wanted to get this year, but it was likely due to the cold weather and there were a lot of things happening this weekend but we are always extremely thankful for Red Deer’s continued support,” said President of the Red Deer Christmas Bureau, Teresa Kutynec.

“We hope that people continue to open their hearts and donate.”

The Red Deer Christmas Bureau also received hundreds of toy donations, which will help more than 70 families put toys under their trees on Christmas morning.

Alice Kolisnyk, deputy director for the Red Deer Food Bank said the Stuff A Bus fundraiser saw around 2,300 lbs of food donations from Central Albertans over the weekend, which is slightly down from last year’s food accumulation as well.

“We are so always so grateful for the support we see and it never ceases to amaze us that we can start the weekend off with $0 on day one and end up with thousands by the end of the three days,” said Kolisnyk. “Despite the extremely unpleasant weather – people were still out and about and willing to give and it is always so nice to see.”

The food and cash donations accumulated during Stuff A Bus will go towards ensuring residents of the City, especially those with children will be fed throughout the winter months, as well as go towards their Christmas hamper program which provides a Christmas dinner for those in need.

jswan@reddeerexpress.com