Curves Cornwall’s annual food drive surpassed its goal, collecting 640 pounds of food for the Agapè Centre.

Members and staff of the fitness organization were asked to bring in specific items that are most needed at the food bank, like healthy cereal and school snacks, and canned veggies.

“We choose the Agape Centre food bank to be the recipient of our food drive because of the work that they do to make sure that no one goes hungry in our community,” said Diane Besner, owner of Curves Cornwall

With just a week before the end of the month long initiative, the group was still 130 pounds shy of their 600 pound goal, but the women at Curves stepped up to the challenge.

One member, Ellen Boulerice, carried in 15 to 20 pounds of food items every time she went in for her workout.

The organization also purchased bags of potatoes and carrots with the proceeds from water sales for the month of March.

“It’s so wonderful to receive fresh food like this,” said Alyssa Blais, executive director at the Agapè Centre. “People love getting real fruits and veggies with their food bank groceries.”

The food collected in this campaign has already been added to the food bank’s shelves, and will help feed the 1,000 people who access the free service each month.

Besner was very pleased with the enthusiasm from Curve’s staff and members.

“A big thanks to all that participated in the drive.  You made a difference in reaching and surpassing our goal,” she said. “We did it!”