Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Auxiliary members are trading in routine patrols for a food drive this weekend.
On Saturday, October 3, officers will host Operation Full Plate, a provincewide initiative to restock community food banks.
More than 500 volunteer members will be collecting non-perishable food and essential items for families in need.
OPP Auxiliary Sgt. Paula Stokes said in Lambton County, donations can be dropped off at Heidi’s Independent Grocer in Petrolia, Chris’ No Frills in Corunna and at Foodland in Forest.
"Serving our community has been an important part of the OPP Auxiliary Program for more than 65 years," said Stokes. "Through Operation Full Plate, auxiliary members across Ontario are coming together with their communities to support local food banks and help address food insecurity."
In a news release, Acting Auxiliary Staff Sergeant Matthew Manor said service doesn't always look the same.
"Sometimes it's supporting frontline officers, sometimes it's helping at a community event, and sometimes it's making sure a neighbour has food on their table. Operation Full Plate reflects what our auxiliary members have always been about, showing up for their communities when it matters."
The provincewide food drive will run from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
To learn more and find your closest drop off location, visit opp.ca/fullplate.
