CP Holiday Train Illuminates Needs of Canadian Food Banks

(Calgary) December 10, 2007 - Decorated with hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights and carrying its own cast of Canadian entertainers, Canadian Pacific's Holiday Train launches the western portion of its tour, shining a very bright light on the needs of hungry Canadians.

Leaving from Moose Jaw, SK this morning, the CP Holiday Train will bring its message of hope to another 35 communities before ending its cross Canada journey in Port Moody, BC on December 18.

"In preparing for the coming holidays, the arrival of CP Holiday Train reminds us that not all Canadians enjoy access to an abundance of food", said Katharine Schmidt, Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Food Banks. "More than 720,000 Canadians rely on food banks each month."

Food banks assist Canadians in every province and territory including growing cities, small towns, and rural and northern communities. 51% of households receiving food assistance are families with at least one child. Between 1997 and 2007, the number of people using food banks increased by 8.4%*.

The Holiday Train journey started in Beaconsfield, PQ on December 1st. Over 70 towns, villages and cities will experience the spirit of the train as it raises awareness, money and food donations for hunger relief.

"The CP Holiday Train has become an annual tradition for communities and food banks along the journey," said CP Director of Public Affairs, Mark Seland. "We are inviting the public to bring food and funds when coming to participate in the celebration in their community. Come out and enjoy the entertainment and the wonder of the new 2007 Holiday Train".

Since 1999, CP's Holiday Train has helped generate almost 1.6 million pounds of food donations and helped raise $3 million for local food banks.

For specific information on the train's schedule visit www.cpr.ca
*All statistical information taken from HungerCount 2007

For further information:
CAFB
Micky Fraterman 416-203-9241 x.28
email: micky@cafb-acba.ca

Canadian Pacific
Breanne Feigel: 403-589-6949
email: breanne_feigel@cpr.ca