An RCMP vehicle is set to be filled with donations of food and other items for local kids and families over two events in the next week. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

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Local school kids & families the focus of Nanaimo ‘Cram the Cruiser’ events

Dec 5, 2025 | 10:03 AM

NANAIMO — Local Mounties are putting their cruisers to a different use over the next week.

Instead of being used to respond to calls or apprehending those falling foul of the law, Nanaimo RCMP will park one of their vehicles outside the Save-on-Foods location in north Nanaimo on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien said they’re asking for donations of non-perishable food items, or pre-prepared baskets available at the grocer.

“They’ll shove it into the car and once the car is full, away they go. All those items are going to schools within the School District because we know that it’s been really hard and a lot of the items are due to go to certain schools within the District to really help out with lunch programs, and feeding kids at breakfast.”

The event has been held in past years and enabled a considerable donation to local organizations, non-profits and food banks.

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O’Brien said a second event is scheduled for Dec. 13 outside Real Canadian Superstore on Metral Dr., where officers will be helping out two different organizations.

“We’re accepting toys, clothing, grocery cards or even cash. It’s all going towards Loaves and Fishes Food Bank and for the Great Nanaimo Toy Drive.”

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