Port Coquitlam residents don’t need proof that they are among the most generous of citizens.
Their giving nature is exemplified by hometown hero Terry Fox and the way they take care of their most vulnerable citizens.
And this week, the province is giving PoCo its due, acknowledging the generosity of local liquor store customers who gave donations at the till to the Red Cross BC Fire Appeal.
In fact, the BC Liquor Store at Westwood Centre raised $25,855 in just eight weeks — July 10 to Aug. 31 — the most of any government liquor store. The money will help British Columbians affected by wildfires.
The fact that the PoCo store was tops in B.C. is no surprise to senior store manager Sean McKenzie, who said his customers are generous givers for any important cause, with his store typically bringing in the most money for dry grad, as well.
This year, for example, the PoCo liquor store raised more than $8,000 so grad revellers could have a safe time.
But why PoCo raised so much for wildfire relief is a bit of a mystery.
McKenzie suspects families here identify with those whose homes and livelihoods were destroyed by wildfires. His staff took the fundraising seriously, too.
“These are real people that are dealing with an extraordinary situation," he said. "It’s expected that they ask for donations.”
In total, the appeal generated a record-breaking $417,675 for the Red Cross BC Fire Appeal. The next largest donor was the liquor store Kelowna Orchard Park, where $14,332 was raised.
