The commitment of BCLC employees to giving back to their community reached new heights this year, as they raised over $26,000 for two local Kamloops charities.
On July 25, representatives from the Y Women’s Emergency Shelter and the Kamloops Food Bank were presented with a total donation of $26,842.64 at BCLC’s Kamloops office — a result of a full year of fundraising efforts led entirely by BCLC staff.
The funds were raised through a variety of employee-driven initiatives including raffles, silent auctions, 50/50 draws, and individual payroll contributions, all organized by BCLC’s internal employee-giving committee.
“We are thrilled and honoured to present these funds to our employee-chosen charities in Kamloops,” said Janet Beedle, a member of the employee-giving committee and Operations Standards Specialist at BCLC. “Many employees went above and beyond, showing a true commitment to supporting the vital work of these local organizations.”
The Y Women’s Emergency Shelter plans to use its share of the donation to upgrade its outdoor space for women and children staying at the shelter.
“This support allows us to create a brighter, safer, and more welcoming environment for the families we serve,” said Jacqueline Ballard, Staffing Resource Coordinator at the shelter. “It’s organizations like BCLC that help us continue making a lasting impact in our community.”
The Kamloops Food Bank will direct most of the funding toward its Starfish Backpack and Basics for Babies programs, which provide essential food and supplies to children and infants.
“BCLC employees are constantly asking how they can help — and they always follow through,” said Bernadette Siracky, President and CEO of the Kamloops Food Bank. “Their ongoing support means we can continue to serve the most vulnerable members of our community.”
BCLC, which has been headquartered in Kamloops since 1985, has a longstanding legacy of community support. Over the past four decades, its Kamloops employees have volunteered more than 574,000 hours. Last year, their fundraising efforts totaled just over $19,000 — making this year’s increase a significant milestone.
