Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Dec 21/01) - There were more reasons to give this year -- and Yellowknifers did not disappoint.

In September, the city raised $40,000 over one weekend for the families of victims of the New York City terrorist attacks. School children also did their share, selling everything from lollipops to Rice Krispie squares.

"I'm truly amazed at how generous the people of Yellowknife have been this year," said Sue Glowach, citing the example of the car wash at the fire hall.

Yellowknifers also dug deep into their pockets this year and gave to the Stanton Regional Hospital Foundation. The foundation has raised $80,177 since April, which is consistent with previous years. The foundation's most recent fundraiser, the Festival of Trees, exceeded all expectations. The event's success means the hospital is now $55,000 closer to purchasing new cardiac diagnostic equipment for the hospital.

However, the increase in good causes this year meant the Yellowknife Food Bank received less than usual. "It's understandable," said president Dave Ritchie. "I'm impressed people still have something to give."

Ritchie said the food bank relies on the Christmas season for half the money it needs to operate throughout the year.

"We got good news today," said Ritchie. The Elks Club donated $5,000 to the food bank. Last week, the Legion gave $4,000 and the Royal Purple donated $1,000.

"Thanks to the generous people of Yellowknife, we are able to carry on," said Ritchie. The food bank is open for an extra Saturday between Christmas and New Year's.

"We did that last year and it was helpful," said Ritchie. adding that it was -40 most of the time. "People who come out when it is that cold really need it," said Ritchie.