Turkey tradition lives on in Collingwood, with 250 free food hampers given to those in need

Turkey giveaway tradition marks 24th year A Collingwood businessman donated 250 turkey dinners to those in need for the 24th year.

For more than two decades, Chris Dopp has spread generosity in the form of hundreds of turkey dinners to those in need over the holidays.

There are no questions asked and no forms to fill out. Dopp supplied 250 free food hampers, complete with a turkey, on Monday morning to anyone in Collingwood needing some extra help at this time of year.

“I don’t think people should have to do an application for food,” said Dopp, owner of The Mortgage Centre. “I think there is a gap in there that are not looked after, the working poor that are working two jobs, they have kids, they have rent, and this is just a little thing to help them.”

Each bag handed out is valued at roughly $45.

“Just knowing that there are people like this really warms my heart and it gives me some hope,” said food hamper recipient Amanda Ripley.

Several people even volunteered their time to deliver hampers to those who couldn’t pick them up.

Dozens of hampers were taken to homes, schools and apartment buildings in time for Christmas.

“I’m looking forward to the turkey dinner,” said Collingwood resident Scott Campbell.

Dopp said he definitely plans to continue the tradition again next year, which will mark his 25th year of giving.