Peachland has emerged as Canada’s kindest community in a contest run by Coca-Cola Canada. The Peachland community has earned a reputation for looking out for its neighbours through volunteerism, generosity, and a strong sense of belonging.

There were multiple reasons the community of Peachland stood out among 800 towns and cities as the winner. The Peachland community was praised for coming together to help one another during two major wildfires last year. When people were forced to leave their homes, neighbours stepped in to provide food, shelter, clothing, and blankets so no one was left without help. Judges also highlighted how residents regularly check on elderly neighbours, support the local food bank and wellness centre, and have donated 297 handmade quilts to hospitals, women’s shelters, and children in need. This recognition shows how much care and effort people in Peachland put into supporting each other and building a strong, caring community.

Coca-Cola partnered with Community Foundations of Canada to oversee the ‘Kindest Community’ contest. This was the second year that Coca-Cola Canada oversaw the contest. The contest drew 5,400 submissions from more than 800 towns and cities. Ten finalists were chosen based on the greatest number of entries per capita from each community, with a panel of judges then selecting the winner. The prize was doubled from the $50,000 received by Jarvis in 2025.

The $100,000 prize amount will be shared among a small number of registered non-profits in Peachland. The money will be used toward specific projects or to help the groups with their ongoing expenses.

Source:  Ron Seymour, Penticton Herald