The 2012 Toy Run in 100 Mile House was an event that gave and gave.
The benefit ride for the 100 Mile House Food Bank Society took place Sept. 16, with the rally point in the A&W parking lot. The lot became a sea of chrome and rubber before the 47 motorcycles and 18 classic cars took off for a ride around the South Cariboo, laden with stuffed toys of every size and colour.
The first stop was at Carefree Manor assisted living facility, where residents eagerly waited outside with arms full of toys ready to donate.
The excited seniors waved as the long parade of bikes and cars thundered up the street and parked by the curb.
The ride continued on to the Dusty Rose Neighbourhood Pub in 70 Mile House where riders stopped to collect a $70 donation, which was the proceeds from a meat draw.
They carried on along Green Lake and to the Iron Horse Pub in Lone Butte where riders unloaded enough toys to fill the back of one car and a truck to the brim. Vehicles were lined up for a show 'n shine and riders were invited to help themselves to a lunch donated by the pub.
People had an opportunity to vote for their favourite vehicles, choosing a 1964 Corvette Stingray owned by John and Karen Wood as best car, and a 2007 Harley Davidson Street Glide owned by Eva Eriksen as best motorcycle.
Cash donations collected throughout the day amounted to $864.22 and the money and toys were handed over to elated food bank secretary Kathy Haveman during the event.
"It was an absolutely wonderful day. This means lots more food for the food bank and a great start to all of the toys we'll be needing for Christmas."
Phil Doddridge co-ordinated the event with Steve Anderson and says he was thrilled with the results of the toy run.
"It never ceases to amaze me how willing people and businesses are to donate to a cause. It was fantastic."