TERRACE, B.C. — Not even the season’s first heavy snowfall could dampen the charitable spirit of the Northwest. While the blizzard-like conditions on December 22 kept many residents indoors, others braved the elements to support the Terrace RCMP’s annual “Cram the Cruiser” fundraiser.
Stationed outside local grocery hubs, Terrace RCMP officers, support staff, and provincial sheriffs worked alongside the community to collect essential supplies and financial donations for those facing food insecurity this holiday season.
Delivering Results in Difficult Conditions
The event, which serves as a critical lifeline for local charitable organizations, saw a steady stream of “generous” donors despite the treacherous road conditions.
- Food Donations: Two full truckloads of non-perishable food items were collected and immediately delivered to local recipients.
- Financial Support: In addition to the physical goods, residents contributed more than $1,000 in cash.
- Primary Beneficiaries: All proceeds and supplies were split between K’san Place and the Terrace Churches Food Bank.
“Although the overall donations were lower than previous years, those who dared to brave the snow were very generous,” said Constable Kelly Cates, Media Relations Officer for the Terrace RCMP.
Strategic Partnerships and Community Gratitude
The success of the 2025 event relied heavily on the cooperation of local retail giants. Both Safeway and Save-On-Foodsserved as the primary collection sites, encouraging shoppers to add a few extra items to their carts for the cause.
The timing of the event was particularly impactful. As previously reported, the Terrace region has seen a surge in retail intensity this week, with parking lots at major malls and grocery stores packed “wall to wall” as residents prepare for Christmas. By positioning “Cram the Cruiser” during this peak shopping period, the RCMP was able to maximize visibility, even as the storm limited foot traffic.
The Growing Need in the Northwest
The support comes at a vital time for the Terrace Churches Food Bank and K’san Place, which have seen increased demand due to rising living costs and the economic strain of the winter season.
Regional leaders have emphasized that such community-led initiatives are essential for “Community Wellness”—one of the five core pillars of the City of Terrace’s strategic plan. While the 2025 totals were hampered by the weather, the “measurable delivery” of two truckloads of food ensures that dozens of local families will have access to a holiday meal this week.
“Thank you once again to the community of Terrace as well as to Safeway and Save-On-Foods for supporting this event once again,” Cates concluded.
Skeena News Tip: If you missed the cruiser but still wish to donate, both K’san Place and the Terrace Churches Food Bank accept year-round donations of non-perishable goods and cash to support their ongoing meal programs.
