INNISFAIL - The CP Holiday Train is returning to Innisfail.
This year the CP Holiday Train will feature Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame artist Terri Clark, as well as Sierra Noble and Kelly Prescott.
The train arrives in Innisfail Dec. 11 at 1:15 p.m.
The annual event is a fundraiser for the Innisfail and District Food Bank.
"We are busy and we are getting new clients pretty well every week," said Brenda Hand, co-coordinator of the food bank.
A recent downturn in the economy this fall has contributed to an increased need, noted Hand.
"People are getting hours cut back at work or losing their jobs completely," she said. "With winter starting, Christmas (approaching) and kids in school, that all adds to family expenses."
She said the increase in donations between Thanksgiving and Christmas helps fill a need in Innisfail.
"Donations will probably increase because schools hold concerts or do a project and ask for donations. The inter-church Christmas musical choir donate to us; we also have the Charity Check Stop and the CP Holiday Train," she added.
The CP Holiday Train is a big fundraiser for the food bank.
"There will be vehicles (accepting) non-perishable donations," she said, adding members of the Rotary Club of Innisfail and volunteers with the food bank will be on hand to collect food donations. "We're very happy to have the CP Holiday Train back. They've been here many years and we appreciate their support.
"Innisfail is a generous community and we appreciate everything," Hand concluded.
