Strathcona County RCMP's 'Cram a Cruiser' Food Drive Exceeds Expectations

On October 9, 2025, the Strathcona County RCMP and Enforcement Services hosted their annual 'Cram a Cruiser' food drive, aiming to support the Strathcona Food Bank.

 

Community members gathered at three local grocery stores—Superstore on Baseline Road, Save-On Foods on Broadway Boulevard, and Safeway on Sherwood Drive—to fill police cruisers with non-perishable food items and monetary donations.

 

Tom Sutton, Director of RCMP and Enforcement Services, expressed his gratitude, stating, "Over the last few years, we've seen firsthand how generous our community can be. Every can, box, and dollar donated makes a real difference for families in need."

 

In total, $1,838 was raised with a further 5,476 pounds of food collected for the Strathcona Food Bank.

 

According to Strathcona County RCMP, that equates to 18 cruisers crammed full with donations.

 

This is a notable step up from last year, where around 4,700 pounds of food and $900 in donations were collected.

 

This remarkable outpouring of support underscores the community's commitment to addressing food insecurity.

 

In 2024, the Strathcona Food Bank distributed 7,824 hampers, serving 24,458 individuals—a 30% increase from 2023.

 

As food insecurity continues to rise, initiatives like 'Cram a Cruiser' are vital in meeting the growing demand.

 

The food bank's most needed items this fall include canned fruit, no-sugar-added fruit juice, unseasoned tomato sauce, ready-to-serve soups and chili, feminine hygiene products, canned beans in sauce, pudding cups, toothbrushes, toothpaste, bar soap, shampoo, conditioner, shaving razors, and dish soap.

 

Additionally, baby wipes, diapers and pull-ups in sizes 4T-6T, and dry pet food are also appreciated.

 

All donations collected during the event will remain within Strathcona County, directly benefiting local residents in need.

 

Tom Sutton added, "We're proud to support the Strathcona Food Bank and grateful to everyone who helped fill the cruiser."

 

For those who missed the event but still wish to contribute, the Strathcona Food Bank accepts donations year-round.

 

Visit their official channels for more information on how to help.

 

Community initiatives like 'Cram a Cruiser' highlight the power of collective action in addressing local challenges.

 

As the holiday season approaches, continued support will be essential in ensuring that no family in Strathcona County goes hungry.