Over 4,400 bags of non-perishable food and hygiene items were collected during the 42nd annual Irish Miracle drive on Saturday.
St. Patrick's Catholic High School students, staff, and community members volunteered to canvas homes in Sarnia, Bright's Grove, and Point Edward.
Teacher Vanessa Borody said most routes were covered and most items were collected off porches.
"We did have some messages from people who didn't have their items picked up," Borody said. "Of course we are always apologetic when community members don't get reached. It is never intentional and we hope to rectify it in the future."
Borody said the community was very generous.
"We collected approximately 4,400 bags of food," she said. "That number is likely higher, as I had many routes who didn't report their bag count. We are thrilled with the success, as is Saint Vincent de Paul. We could not be more proud of, and grateful to, our canvassers, drivers, and sorters."
Borody said the Irish Miracle organizing committee also wanted to express its gratitude to the community for their unwavering generosity year-over-year, and to the Knights of Columbus, who served volunteers breakfast.
"Their generosity is absolutely necessary to our success, and they always show up with a smile, a kind word, and often stay and sort long after they have finished serving breakfast," Borody said.
