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Generous British Columbians Break Donation Records for Local Food Banks Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

CBC Vancouver’s Virtual Open House and Food Bank Day Raised Over 2.3 million dollars, doubling previous donation record

On Friday, December 4, 2020, CBC Vancouver’s annual Open House and Food Bank Day raised $2,334,485 for local food banks in B.C., breaking previous donations records, despite tough economic conditions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. This new record more than doubles the previous donation record of $1,126,000.

This year, the event went digital in adherence to physical distancing protocols. British Columbians from across the province logged in online for digital meet and greets with their favourite CBC personalities, tuned into a full day of special programming on CBC Radio One and donated to their local food banks.

“I am so inspired by the generosity of British Columbians. It is a true testament to the power of community and what we can achieve when we come together,” says Johnny Michel, senior managing director, CBC British Columbia and Alberta. “It has been a difficult year for many.  Thank you to everyone who opened their hearts and wallets, you have made a difference in the lives of families across the province.”

For 34 years, British Columbians have been donating to food banks at CBC/Radio-Canada's annual Open House and Food Bank Day, raising more than $12 million for food banks in B.C. since its inception in 1986. The public can continue to donate to their local food bank at cbc.ca/foodbankday until the end of the month.

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About CBC/Radio-Canada
CBC/Radio-Canada is Canada’s national public broadcaster. Through our mandate to inform, enlighten and entertain, we play a central role in strengthening Canadian culture. As Canada’s trusted news source, we offer a uniquely Canadian perspective on news, current affairs and world affairs. Our distinctively homegrown entertainment programming draws audiences from across the country. Deeply rooted in communities, CBC/Radio-Canada offers diverse content in English, French and eight Indigenous languages. We also deliver content in Spanish, Arabic and Chinese, as well as both official languages, through Radio Canada International (RCI). We are leading the transformation to meet the needs of Canadians in a digital world.

Media contact:
Jennifer Rhyne
CBC English Communications, Marketing & Brand
jennifer.rhyne@cbc.ca
(604) 662-6696

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