Helping Families in Need

Provincial politicians will work together to help families in need this holiday season.

Premier John Hamm was joined by Opposition leader Darrell Dexter and Liberal leader Danny Graham today at the launch of a holiday food- and fundraiser called Toonies for Turkeys.

This fundraiser will involve the premier, opposition leaders and MLAs collecting toonies from constituents. Food donations and other contributions will be gladly accepted. All donations will be given by individual office holders to charitable organizations of their choice.

"The holiday season can be very difficult for some families," said Premier Hamm. "This is a great opportunity for everybody at the legislature, as well as those who visit Province House this fall, to get into the spirit of the season and help people in their communities."

"Countless volunteers throughout the province work hard to support Nova Scotians in need," said Mr. Dexter. "This effort is our way as elected officials to show support and solidarity."

"By working together, we can all help make a difference through this very worthy cause," said Mr. Graham. "Toonies for Turkeys is our small way of helping to ensure that more Nova Scotians have a happy holiday."

A tote board in Province House will keep track of all monies and foodstuffs collected.

Sobeys Inc., in conjunction with Nestle, has also donated three freezers to Toonies for Turkeys. One of these freezers will be kept in Province House so that individuals who would like to participate can drop off a food donation. At the end of the fundraiser, the freezers will be given to food banks throughout the province.

A donation box will also be kept at Province House for individuals who wish to make monetary donations.

Toonies for Turkeys will run from Nov. 1 to Dec. 2.