TIVERTON, ON – Bruce Power has given a $57,000 boost to food banks and Christmas Hamper gift programs across the region.

The annual holiday donation provides much-needed funding for these integral, non-profit programs during the holiday season, said Duncan Hawthorne, President and CEO.

"The important work these volunteer-driven programs do across Bruce, Grey and Huron counties allows many to give their families a special Christmas, and we're happy we can play a role in that," Hawthorne said. "Every community in the area does a great job filling food bank shelves and buying toys and clothes to go under Christmas trees. Bruce Power and its employees have a long tradition of supporting these community programs."

In 2011, there were 14 food banks in Grey and Bruce counties. With rising poverty levels and increased demands on low-income families, the number of food banks has risen to 20.

"The need in our communities is great, and Bruce Power and its employees will continue to do our part during the holiday season," Hawthorne said.

Source - Bruce Power