The Brian Heppner Memorial Toy Run, formally known as the Goldrush Toy Run, is set to begin at the A&W on Highway 97 on Sept. 16 once again.
“Motorcycle riders and car enthusiasts get together once a year and donate toys to the food bank,” said Phil Doddridge, the organizer of the event since he took it over five years ago.
The 100 Mile Food Bank will be providing hamburgers and hot dogs at their location on Seventh Street to those who come to donate, though it is open to all.
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“They really need our support, especially in ramping up to Christmas. That’s why we provide unwrapped toys for kids and they [the food bank] can donate as they make up hampers for Christmas,” said Doddridge. “There are a lot of younger adults that are in that kind of situation where they need some help. They’ve got a need for them at Christmas.”
Toys of all kinds will be accepted, including the usual teddy bears and presents for younger teens. The presents are provided to the Food Bank unwrapped to help them and parents to determine the appropriate age bracket for a certain toy.
Doddridge said he expects around 50 motorcycle riders and five to ten cars to participate in the run.
The run will start from A&W at 11 a.m. and the group will be riding for at least an hour depending on the weather and end up at the Food Bank around noon.
“If you just want to come and donate something to the food bank, show up at noon and there will be a lot of people there to gratefully accept your donation,” said Doddridge.
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