The annual Make a Difference Auction in support of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank takes place at Abby Stockyard (34559 McClary Ave.) on Thursday, March 12.
The event starts at 10 a.m. with general auction items. Lunch is provided by RBC Royal Banks at noon, and the cattle auction begins at approximately 12:45 p.m.
Traditionally, the auction has been mostly cattle and farm-related items, but recent years have included plenty of other items such as fresh fruit, ice cream, artisan cheeses, golf passes, fishing trips, and even a lawn tractor.
Proceeds from the sale of the items are donated to Canadian Foodgrains Bank for its work in ending world hunger.
Last year, the auction broke its record, raising almost $269,000.
“It was an incredible moment,” says Rob Brandsma, auction coordinator. “I’m hoping we can do that again this year.”
The auction has raised over $2.5 million since its inception in the mid-’90s.
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Proceeds have been used to help farmers in countries such as Ethiopia and Kenya learn new farming techniques to grow more food for their families, and to provide emergency food to families in South Sudan affected by conflict.
This year, proceeds will be used to help families who are living through conflict in countries in the Middle East, including Lebanon, Syria and Yemen.
“It’s a practical and fantastic way for local farmers and businesses to play a part in helping end global hunger by coming together as an entire industry and community to help farmers and struggling communities in developing countries,” says Brandsma, who is backed by a team of dedicated volunteers.
Musu Taylor-Lewis, Foodgrains Bank director of resource and public engagement, said more families around the world are experiencing hunger as a result of conflict.
She said the organization is grateful for the contributions of those involved in the Make a Difference auction.
“All these contributions help us move together toward a world without hunger and make a big difference to the people who can go to sleep without a worry of what they will eat the next day,” she said.
For more information about the event or to make a donation, visit foodgrainsbank.ca/abbotsford or email brandsma.rob@gmail.com.