Kyla Devito has been one of the strongest supporters of the Alberni Valley News’ annual charity, which this year we have renamed Coins For Kids.
Last year, Devito collected her weight in coins: 50 pounds. This year she’s not so sure she will make her weight (“I weigh 60 pounds now,” she says), but she has been collecting coins ever since she dropped off last year’s donation and recruited family members to help.
It’s people like Devito who have made our annual fundraiser such a success since we started it three years ago. It began in 1996 as a Black Press initiative, Pennies for Presents, when the late Frank Legh wanted to do something as a company that would help children have a good Christmas regardless of their circumstances.
Since the penny has been taken out of production in Canada this year, we have renamed our charity Coins For Kids. But our goal remains the same: to help children in the Alberni Valley. We are supporting Port Alberni Toy Run again this year.
We are asking the public to consider donating your spare change to our Coins For Kids campaign.
Coins may be dropped off at the News office, 4656 Margaret St., from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Or please call us at 250-723-6399 and we will arrange a pickup.
editor@albernivalleynews.com