A fundraising event at Rotary Beach Pier in Summerland will raise money for the interior of the new Summerland Food Bank and Resource Centre.
Jump in to Help will see people jumping off the pier to raise money for the food bank on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Anne Ellis, minister at Summerland United Church, said the church and the food bank are working together on this fundraiser, which will go to furnishing the inside of the new food bank location on Henry Avenue.
This work includes installing washrooms, washing machines and other items needed in the new location.
The cost of this project is estimated at $350,000, with the United Church to donate $50,000.
The food bank will be on the ground floor of the new 60-unit affordable housing project, now under construction.
Ellis said the church has had a long connection with the food bank. From its beginning in 1984 until late in 2024, it was located in the United Church building on Henry Avenue.
鈥淲hile we're no longer in the same building, our commitment to continue to support this valuable community resource,鈥� she said.
The food bank is temporarily operating out of Summerland Alliance Church on Victoria Road North while a new housing facility and food bank location are being constructed at the former United Church site.
Ellis is encouraging people to raise money to contribute to the fundraising effort.
鈥淧ersonally, I'm terrified of jumping off the pier, but for the right amount of donations, I might be convinced to do it,鈥� she said
She added that if the congregation raises $1,000, she will jump into the lake wearing her wedding dress. 鈥淢y congregation is working to ensure it happens.鈥�
She urges others to participate in the fundraiser.
A donation page for this event has been set up at .
