The executive director for Outreach for Hunger in Chatham-Kent is thrilled that the CP Holiday Train is making a stop in Chatham-Kent this year.
Brenda LeClair says it's always an exciting event that puts people in the holiday spirit.
"We are thrilled. This very exciting news. We have been trying for years to get it to stop back in Chatham again and let us be part of that great celebration. You've just made my day with this news," says LeClair.
The train hasn't made a stop in Chatham for a few years, but this year it'll stop behind the John D. Bradley Convention Centre on Richmond St. on Thursday, November 30 at 2:30pm. Blue Rodeo founding member Jim Cuddy and his son Devin, along with country music singer Kelly Prescott, will entertain the crowd from 2:45pm to 3:15pm.
Outreach for Hunger sees at least 30 new families at the food bank every month. The food bank also serves 300 to 400 families a month.
LeClair says the holiday season has just become a little brighter for more local people.
"The last time they stopped, they gave us a sizable cheque to help provide food. It gave us the opportunity to bring the community together to celebrate and watch for the train. People brought in donations and it just has far reaching results when they're coming to Chatham like that," LeClair says.
LeClair says she's glad the holiday train is making a return to Chatham because so many people benefit from it.
"They have a schedule that they're following and they just go with it. We've written letters and asked them to make a stop and finally we got through to the right people and we just couldn't be happier to welcome them to Chatham," says LeClair.