Showing posts with label food bank help. Show all posts
Showing posts with label food bank help. Show all posts

Thursday, March 14, 2024

Empowering Communities: The Transformative Impact of Supporting Your Local Food Bank

 In a world filled with constant hustle and bustle, it's easy to lose sight of the struggles faced by our neighbours, friends, and even family members. While we're caught up in the whirlwind of our daily lives, there are individuals in our community who are grappling with the harsh reality of food insecurity. It's time for us to come together and make a difference by supporting our local food banks.

Picture this: A child going to bed with a growling stomach, a parent skipping meals to ensure their children eat, or a senior citizen forced to choose between groceries and medication. These scenarios are not as distant as we might think. Food insecurity affects millions of people worldwide, and your local food bank plays a crucial role in alleviating this issue within your community.

Supporting your local food bank goes beyond providing meals; it's about building a foundation of strength, resilience, and compassion within your community. Here's why you should be motivated to contribute:

1. Nourishing the Future

Children are the future, and their potential should never be hindered by an empty stomach. By supporting your local food bank, you're investing in the well-being of the younger generation. A well-nourished child is better equipped to focus in school, learn effectively, and build the skills necessary for a brighter future.

2. Strengthening Community Bonds

Communities thrive when individuals come together for a common cause. Volunteering or donating to your local food bank fosters a sense of unity and shared responsibility. It's a chance to meet like-minded individuals, forge new connections, and work towards a collective goal of ensuring no one in your community goes to bed hungry.

3. Empowering Individuals and Families

Food insecurity can be a vicious cycle, impacting not only individuals but entire families. By contributing to your local food bank, you're offering a lifeline to those facing tough times. Access to nutritious food empowers individuals and families to break free from the cycle of poverty and take steps toward a more stable and prosperous future.

4. Tackling Food Waste

Supporting your local food bank is not just about helping those in need; it's also about reducing food waste. Many food banks work with local businesses to rescue surplus food that would otherwise end up in landfills. Your support contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly community.

5. Encouraging Gratitude and Generosity

Gratitude is a powerful force. When you witness the impact of your support on someone's life, it cultivates a sense of gratitude within yourself. This, in turn, encourages a cycle of generosity, inspiring others to join the cause and create a ripple effect of positive change.

In conclusion, supporting your local food bank is not just an act of charity; it's an investment in the well-being of your community. Every contribution, whether big or small, plays a part in creating a more compassionate and resilient society. So, let's unite, lift each other up, and make a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it most. Together, we can build a community where no one is left behind, one meal at a time.

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Support your local foodbank 2

 Another compelling reason to support your local food bank at this time of year is its ability to foster a sense of community and empathy. Food banks rely heavily on volunteers who sort, pack, and distribute food to those in need. By dedicating your time and resources to assist your local food bank, you not only provide essential support but also contribute to a stronger sense of community. Volunteering at a food bank allows you to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and provides an opportunity to learn about the diverse circumstances that contribute to food insecurity. This experience can be eye-opening and develop empathy and compassion within individuals.

Supporting your local food bank also contributes to the overall well-being of the community. Hunger not only affects physical health but also has significant impacts on mental health and overall quality of life. By ensuring that individuals and families do not go hungry, we can strengthen the fabric of our society. Children who have access to adequate nutrition are more likely to perform well academically and have better long-term health outcomes. Additionally, seniors and those struggling with financial hardships can benefit from the peace of mind that comes from knowing they have a reliable source of food. In this way, supporting your local food bank promotes social justice and enhances the overall quality of life within your community.

Supporting your local food bank  is a crucial endeavour that addresses the pressing issue of hunger in our society. By contributing to the availability of nutritious meals, reducing food waste, fostering empathy, and promoting community well-being, individuals can make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity. It is our collective responsibility to support and uplift one another, and supporting your local food bank is an impactful way to demonstrate that commitment. So let us come together, donate, volunteer, and support our local food banks to create lasting change and build a brighter future for all.

Monday, October 9, 2023

Food Banks in Canada Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is an important time of year for those of us in Canada, but in many areas of the country there is not a lot to be thankful for today. Food insecurity is a threat to the health and welfare of many seniors, those with disabilities and those on fixed incomes. We are confronted with a grave issue as we focus on addressing the symptom rather than the underlying cause. The word "crisis" is swiftly invoked in discussions with food bank administrators throughout Canada. The relentless surge in food prices due to inflation, coupled with stagnant wages and insufficient support programs, has led to an unprecedented surge in demand at food banks across the nation. In order to meet this soaring demand, some food banks have been compelled to reduce the amount of assistance provided to each individual.

It is disheartening to observe that among those queuing up for food hampers are new Canadians and hardworking individuals from the lower-middle class. In regions where food insecurity rates are already alarmingly high, such as the North, a Yellowknife food bank reports a staggering 72 percent increase in the number of undernourished children. The existence of food banks was originally intended to be temporary, as affirmed by the head of the Regina Food Bank, which has now operated for four decades.

Poverty has caught up with the middle class in Newfoundland, as highlighted by the operator of the largest food bank in Newfoundland and Labrador who, displeased by its size, decries the current system. Outside the St. John's Foodbank, he shares his frustration, stating, "This is a broken system." The number of clients at the Foodbank has more than quadrupled since the period prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the fastest-growing segment being working people who now constitute 40 percent of the client base. The lower-middle class has been pushed into poverty due to escalating costs and stagnant incomes that fail to keep pace with inflation.

Moreover, the situation worsens for seniors and individuals with fixed incomes who struggle to make ends meet amidst skyrocketing grocery costs. Many seniors have resorted to relying on food banks near their residences to barely stay afloat. Even those who require government assistance to make ends meet find themselves compelled to turn to food banks to survive the month.

The continuous reliance on food banks in Canada, four decades after their establishment, signifies a disconcerting trend. These facilities were initially conceived as temporary responses to combat high inflation and exorbitant costs. Yet, the demand for food bank services continues to escalate throughout the country. People from all walks of life, including those employed full-time, find themselves seeking assistance from food banks. Whether they struggle to earn a living wage, face unaffordable rent, or live with disabilities, the need remains pressing. Unfortunately, while the organization endeavors to assist more individuals, thousands still return to empty tables.

Quebec is currently grappling with a food insecurity crisis, and the government's response has been sluggish. The surge in demand over the past year has compelled one food bank to restrict the number of daily visitors and reduce the size of its food baskets by almost 30 percent. The center has even contemplated charging a small fee for these baskets. This raises a pertinent question: should the existence of food banks in Canada in 2023 be a matter of concern?

While "food security" has perpetually posed challenges for certain segments of our community, the fact remains that food banks lack government funding and rely entirely on donations from community partners and individuals. Consequently, the North has experienced an upsurge in demand, while donations have dwindled. At the Salvation Army food bank in Yellowknife, usage by single adults and households has surged by 51 percent and 49 percent, respectively, from May 2022 to May 2023. The number of children reliant on the food bank has skyrocketed by an alarming 72 percent. Concurrently, donations have declined significantly, forcing the Salvation Army to allocate over $160,000 towards purchasing food during the 2022-2023 fiscal year.

In conclusion, it is crucial that we reflect upon whether food banks should still exist in Canada in 2023. The current state of affairs demands our immediate attention and proactive measures. "Food security" has transformed into a prevailing issue affecting diverse segments of our society, and it is imperative that we address the systemic causes underlying this persistent crisis. As we celebrate Thanksgiving I hope you have take the time to support your local foodbank.

This is my interpretation of a report done by Canadian Press on June 30, 2023


Sunday, May 28, 2023

Help your local food bank

 Food banks need your help. You can help by doing some or all of:

Raising Awareness: Many people are unaware of the hunger problem in their local community and how food banks can help. One way to get people to support their local food bank is to raise awareness about the issue through social media, flyers, posters, and community events.

Volunteering: Volunteering at a local food bank is an excellent way to support the cause and make a difference. Encourage people to give their time by organizing volunteer events or creating a volunteer program.

Organizing a Food Drive: Organizing a food drive can be a great way to get people involved in supporting their local food bank. Encourage people to donate non-perishable food items and make it easy for them to do so by providing drop-off locations and pickup services.

Partnering with Local Businesses: Partnering with local businesses can help raise awareness and collect donations for your local food bank. Reach out to local restaurants, grocery stores, and other businesses to see if they would donate food or help promote the cause.

Hosting Fundraisers: Hosting a fundraiser is an excellent way to raise money for your local food bank. You can organize events like bake sales, charity auctions, or benefit concerts to help support the cause.

Spreading the Word: Encourage people to spread the word about supporting their local food bank. Word-of-mouth can be a powerful tool in raising awareness and getting more people involved in the cause.

Advocating: Advocating for policies that address poverty and hunger can also help support your local food bank. Encourage people to contact their elected officials and ask them to support policies that help fight hunger and support food banks.

Sharing the impact of their donation: Let people know the impact their donation will have. Show them how their donation will help people in need, and how it will make a difference in their lives.

Making it easy: Make the donation process as easy as possible. Provide multiple donation options, such as online donations, text-to-give, or mail-in donations. This can increase the likelihood of people donating.

Using social media: Use social media to spread the word about your cause and the importance of donations. Share success stories and testimonials from people who have been helped by the donations.

Partnering with local businesses: Partner with local businesses to encourage donations. Ask them to display donation boxes or donate a portion of their profits to the cause. This can increase visibility and awareness.

Showing appreciation: Show appreciation for donations, no matter how small. Send a thank-you note or email, or acknowledge the donation on social media. This can encourage people to continue donating in the future.

Create a sense of urgency: Create a sense of urgency by setting a deadline for donations or highlighting an immediate need. This can encourage people to donate quickly and feel like their contribution is making a difference.

Providing transparency: Provide transparency on how the donations are being used. Share updates on how the donations are making an impact, and provide financial reports to show how the money is being used. This can build trust and encourage people to donate again in the future.

Saturday, April 22, 2023

Support your local Food Bank

Supporting food banks helps to ease hunger and food insecurity in communities by providing access to nutritious food for individuals and families in need. Food banks also serve as a safety net for those facing unexpected financial challenges, such as job loss or medical emergencies. Supporting food banks can help to reduce food waste by rescuing and distributing food that would otherwise go to waste. Overall, supporting food banks is an important way to help address hunger and food insecurity, and to support those in need within our communities.

What is the best way to support a local food bank?

There are several ways to support a local food bank. Some of the best ways include:

Donating food: Food banks always accept non-perishable food items, such as canned goods, cereal, and pasta.

Donating money. Monetary donations can purchase food and supplies, as well as help with the cost of operating the food bank.

Volunteer. Volunteering at a local food bank is a great way to give back to the community, help sort and package food, and assist with distribution.

Advocating. Advocating for policies that address the root causes of food insecurity, such as increasing access to education, healthcare, and affordable housing, can also be a powerful way to support your local food bank.

Hosting a food drive. Hosting a food drive in your community is a great way to collect non-perishable food items and bring awareness to food insecurity in your area.

It’s also worth noting that different food banks have different needs and preferences, so it’s best to check with your local food bank about what they need specifically, and how you can best help them.

Monday, November 28, 2022

Support your local Foodbank

A record number of people used food banks in Canada this year, with high inflation and low social assistance rates cited as key factors in the rise, according to a new report.

The annual report from Food Banks Canada said there were nearly 1.5 million visits to food banks in March, 15 percent more than the same month last year and 35 percent more than in March 2019, prior to the pandemic.

The Food Banks Canada report is based on data from more than 4,750 food banks and community organizations.

The report said the skyrocketing cost of food and housing, as well as high inflation and low social assistance rates, have contributed to the rise in food bank usage.

The report says there has been: a 35% increase in usage in 2 years 4 million meals/snacks served in March 2022 1 in 7 users are employed 49% are on social assistance 33% of users are children 9% are seniors

Fixed-income groups like seniors and employed but low-income people such as students have been hit harder because their paycheques can't keep up with inflation

The report also said that around 500,000 food bank clients — about one-third — are children, who make up around 20 percent of the country's total population. So, if you can support the Foodbank with a cash donation that would be appreciated.


Sunday, December 19, 2021

Food Bank Help

 Did you know that 17% of Food Bank clients are seniors? With so many people to support, the Seniors’ Program is the most expensive supplemental nutritional program that Food Banks run. It provides foods that are high in lean protein, low in sodium and easy to eat.

You’ll help seniors some of who are helping to care for their grandchildren because families have been hard hit because of COVID. I know many grandparents who are doing the best they can to help their family and as a result, do not have enough food for themselves. 

Will you help ensure that seniors in your community receive healthy, nutritious food to eat—and to share with their family and loved ones? Please support the FoodBank in your community.

Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Options for people who need help with food security

  In BC we have a provincial phone line 211 which is a free and confidential service that connects people to helpful and vital resources in their community. Throughout British Columbia, the 211 services is provided by 211 British Columbia Services Society (BC211) in partnership with the United Way and the Government of British Columbia. BC211 is a Vancouver-based, non-profit that strengthens communities by connecting people to the help they need.

BC211 is accredited by the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS) and meets international standards relating to call response, privacy and confidentiality, and the quality and accuracy of resources listed in the database.  

211 provides information and referral to a broad range of community, government, and social services that assist with:

·       basic needs like food and shelter,

·       mental health and addictions support,

·       legal and financial assistance,

·       support for seniors, and much more

It is time to support your local food bank and I do. But I decided to find out what other services there were for low-cost and free food options for people in my area. I did a search for free and low-cost food options within a 20K radius of my home and found the following through 211:

1.  BC Association of Farmers' Markets (BCAFM)

BC Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program

A healthy eating initiative that supports farmers' markets and strengthens food security across British Columbia. Collaborates with community partner organizations to provide coupons to low-income families and seniors participating in food literacy programs.

2.  Our Lady of Assumption Parish

Come to the Table Soup Kitchen provides free meals from 12 noon to 1:30 pm every fourth Saturday for those living in the Tri-Cities (except December). Wheelchair accessible. Non-profit, registered charity.

3.  Friendship Baptist Church

Hosts Club Freedom which offers free weekly community dinners for local residents in need, from 5 pm to 6 pm, every Sunday.

4.  Trinity United Church

Operates a thrift store that sells clothing and household goods; temporarily closed due to pandemic. Hosts a lot of programming by other service providers in the community; food hampers, support groups, and early years programs. Remote office hours are 10 am t...

5.  Muslim Food Bank and Community Services Society

Distributes food hampers for special dietary needs including vegan and religious restrictions to low-income individuals and families (including immigrants, refugees, and refugee claimants) in Metro Vancouver. Registration with picture ID, proof of address required.

6.  Guilford and Whalley Food Depot

a)  Provided by: Surrey Food Bank Society

Distributes food hampers from 10 am to 12 noon every second Wednesday. New registrations can be done at this location. Current and previous food bank clients are required to update here every six months. Serves Surrey residents in the Guilford and Whalley neighbourhood.

7.  Surrey Urban Mission Society (SUMS)

Partners with other organizations and faith communities to offer free meals for anyone in the community.

8.  Red Braid Alliance for Decolonial Socialism

A grassroots organization that organizes on the front lines with communities facing displacement in BC. The goal is to support the development of people's power in working-class and Indigenous communities and build alliances between peoples' struggles. Campaigns c...

9.  Not-for-Profit Grocery Market - Surrey

a)  Provided by: Quest Food Exchange

10.      Bread4Life Program

a)  Provided by: Lookout Housing and Health Society

Provides free nutritious meals seven days a week, with the participation and assistance of community-based organizations and individuals.

11.      Djaef Mahler Grocery

a)  Provided by: Lookout Housing and Health Society

A specialized, high-protein food bank for residents of Surrey and Metro Vancouver who are living with HIV/AIDS and/or hepatitis C and in need of support. Operated in partnership with Djaef Mahler AIDS Benefit Society, Quest Foods, and Surrey Food Bank.

12.      SHARE Food Banks

a)  Provided by: SHARE Family and Community Services Society

Volunteers distribute food to residents in need living in Anmore, Belcarra, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody. Recipients can attend every two weeks. Applicants require proof of local address, income information, and identification for all household me...

b)  SHARE Christmas Programs

Provided by: SHARE Family and Community Services Society

Volunteers distribute Christmas food hampers to Tri-cities residents in need (Anmore, Belcarra, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody) on two food bank Wednesdays each December; registration is required at the food bank. Also offers a toy/gift program for ...

13.      Low Entropy Foundation

14.      Hub Food Programs

a)  Provided by: Oak Avenue Neighbourhood Hub Society

Provides groceries by donation for the general public from 11 am to 12 noon on Tuesdays; also accepts food donations. A Community Dinner (by donation) is held at 4:30 pm every second Saturday of the month; doors open at 4 pm

15.      Community and Family Services - Burnaby

a)  Provided by: The Salvation Army - BC Division

The drop-in centre helps meet the immediate and short-term needs of people in distress through assistance with food, clothing, household goods, emergency disaster services, and lay counselling. Provides youth recreation programs, including basketball.

16.      Community and Family Services - New Westminster

a)  Provided by: The Salvation Army - BC Division

Helps meet the immediate and short-term needs of people in distress through assistance with food, clothing, household goods, emergency disaster services, and lay counselling.

17.      Food Programs - New Westminster

18.      Provided by: The Salvation Army - BC Division

Offers community breakfast on Saturdays at 10 am. Bread and snacks are provided at 1 pm daily. Produce Day serves residents of New Westminster and the Tri-Cities at 1 pm on Wednesdays and residents of Burnaby at 1 pm on Fridays; proof of address and assistance required.

19.      Safe Seniors, Strong Communities

Provided by bc211 - AKA: 211 British Columbia Services Society

Matches eligible seniors age 65 and over who are living in the community and in need of assistance, with volunteers available to help with non-medical services such as grocery shopping and delivery, meal preparation and delivery, medication pick-up, and social.

20.      Food Programs

a)  Provided by: CityReach Care Society - AKA: City Reach Care Society

Food for Families program offers a free nutritious food bank for low-income households in East Vancouver and Port Coquitlam; a government-issued photo ID is required for first-time clients.

21.      Food Not Bombs

Volunteers provide free vegan and vegetarian meals to individuals in need, on an outreach basis. Advocates for sustainable food systems and food recovery. International collective, with BC chapters active in Campbell River, Comox, Cranbrook, Kelowna, Nanaimo.

22.      Food Stash Foundation

Rescues surplus food from producers and suppliers, and redirects it to local nonprofits and food-insecure households and individuals throughout Metro Vancouver. The Rescued Food Box Program provides a weekly delivery of a grocery box to members for $10 per delivery.

Friday, October 29, 2021

Time to support the Food Bank

 Here are some the needed items at our local Food Bank as of October 28:

1.     Canned protein (Fish & meat)

2.     Canned fruit

3.     Canned vegetables

4.     Meals in a Tin (e.g. Pork n’ Beans or Stew)

5.     Whole grain rice

6.     Pasta and pasta sauce

7.     Healthy canned soups

8.     Baby formula (large cans)

9.     Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

10.Canned Fish and Meats

11.Lentils and other dry beans

12.Cereal

13.Pancake Mix

14.Juice

15.Granola Bars

16.Ensure Meal Supplements

Fresh Produce

We are happy to accept fresh produce. Farmers and large food producers, please call us and ask to arrange for pick up or for delivery to our depot.

Many Food Banks have special programs for families with new born babies.

Tiny Bundles is a Food Bank program specifically designed for pregnant moms and families with babies aged newborn to one year. Pregnancy and the first year of a baby’s life are critically important for healthy development. Proper nutrition and support lay a good foundation for the rest of their lives.

Tiny Bundles families receive food every week instead of every two weeks. They are also supplied with fresh eggs and milk while pregnant or nursing. Additional fresh vegetables and other nutritional items are supplied when available.

All Tiny Bundles parents receive a layette as a baby gift when their baby is born and a graduation gift package when the baby turns one and the family reverts to regular distribution.

Tiny Bundles – Most needed items

General Supplies Needed

1.     Formula

2.     We always need powdered formula! Large cans preferred so families receive a one-week supply

3.     Diapers

4.     Larger sizes are in short supply. Size 4 to 6 are preferred.

5.     Cereal

6.     We often need food for babies older than six months.

7.     Baby Jar Food

8.     Fruit, Meals and Vegetables (both large and small jars).

9.     Layette supplies needed

The Surrey Food Bank welcomes each new-born baby with a gift. We welcome donations of items to include in the layette and ask for brand new items only, please. Helpful donations (for newborns − 12 months). Please remember our clients are low-income. Consider providing bottles that do not require liners

10.Baby blankets – receiving or warmer blanket.

11.Sleepers

12.Socks

13.Washcloths

14.Baby toiletry items e.g., lotion, shampoo, Vaseline, baby oil or powder

15.Bibs

16.Baby bottles (large or small)

17.Soother

18.Baby toy

19.Winter wear, e.g., sweaters, booties, mitts, hats

Consider holding a baby shower with friends, family or colleagues to collect baby supplies.

It’s A Party

When the baby turns one, we provide a gift as they graduate from our Tiny Bundles program to Toddler Totes and change to a regular fourteen-day distribution schedule.

Helpful Donations (for 1- to 2-year-olds)

1.     Toddler eating bowls or utensils

2.     Sippy cups

3.     Clothing outfits size 12-18 months

4.     Toiletry items e.g., baby body wash, lotion, soap

5.     Beginner toothbrushes and toothpaste

6.     Books

7.     Small toys

8.     Sweaters, mitts or gloves for 12 months to 24 months

You can also consider sponsoring a Tiny Bundle. For only $50.00 per month, you can help feed a little one in our community. Sponsor a Tiny Bundle Today!

**Please note: Items must be new. Food cannot be expired**

If you really want to help the Food Bank, give money. Every dollar given to the Food Bank can be stretched up to three times what you or I could spend. If you do not want to give money, then I suggest you ask your local Food Bank what they 

Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Help your local Food Bank at Xmas

For 40 years, food banks have been dedicated to helping Canadians living with food insecurity. Over 3,000 food banks and community agencies come together to serve our most vulnerable neighbours who – last year – made 1.1 million visits to these organizations in one month alone, according to the HungerCount report. Over the years, Food Banks Canada shared food and funding to help maximize collective impact and strengthen local capacity, while advocating for reducing the need for food banks. They have a clear vision: create a Canada where no one goes hungry.

Food Banks Canada has advanced this vision through the efforts of a task force of representative members, focused on how they can, collectively, best serve Canadians. There is power and potential in the food banking ecosystem, which is a complex network of interconnected and interdependent systems, focused on feeding those living with food insecurity. The whole truly is greater than the sum of our parts and this strength must be fully leveraged to meet the growing demand across Canada.

Unfortunately demand for food banks remains stubbornly high. During this time of economic uncertainty, the people running your local food banks and doing the hard, front line work, day in and day out, often under trying circumstances. Week after week and year after year, food banks are there for families in need. These people are front-line workers who because of their inspiring dedication and tireless work, help your neighbours move toward a Canada where no one goes hungry. Please support your local Food Bank.

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Remember the food bank this fall.

Fall is half over and before we know it winter will be here. At any time of the year, your neighbours need your help. Food Banks Canada is a national charitable organization dedicated to helping Canadians living with food insecurity. They support a network of Provincial Associations, affiliate food banks, and food agencies that work at the community level to relieve hunger. Their work is focused on maximizing collective impact, strengthening local capacity, and reducing the need for food banks. 

Support your local Food Bank and Food Bank Canada offers several programs that help food banks enhance their ability to acquire a safe and steady supply of nutritious food and distribute it to people in their communities.  More importantly and perhaps not recognized as much is that the Food Bank programs not only help food banks to deliver food but they help deliver a range of other supports, including education and skills training in nutrition, meal planning, food preparation, and food growing. These programs help individuals and families lessen their reliance on the Food Bank.

One program that the Food Bank offers is The National Food Sharing System (NFSS), which is a cornerstone of its network support. Through this program, they acquire safe, nutritious, good quality food and essential consumer products in large quantities from corporate donors. These donations are transported to a national or provincial hub for sorting and then distributed fairly to provincial associations and the network of affiliate food banks.

Each year this program provides community food banks across the country with on average 5-6 million kg (11-13 million pounds) of non-perishable and fresh foods and consumer products worth approximately $32 million. By working in partnership with corporate donors, Food Bank Canada help them achieve their corporate social responsibility objectives, environmental goals, and financial goals, while also helping millions of Canadians in need.

To participate, please contact   ooddonations@foodbankscanada.ca. 

Friday, November 30, 2018

Support your local Food Bank

December 1, and only 24 days until Xmas. Your Food Bank needs your help now. Many Food Bank's are struggling with the increased load they have been asked to take up. The economy may be doing well, but that does not mean workers are doing well. Many people are struggling with low-paying jobs or illness that makes work difficult. The choice that many of our neigbours have to make, do I pay my rent, get my medication or put food on the table for myself and my children. The Food Bank fills a need, not just for the unemployed, but for seniors, single mothers, and working-class families. Many Food Banks not only provide food but they also provide, toys, gifts and Xmas meals.

In the United Kingdom, the Trussell Trust, which operates most of the UK’sfood banks, estimated that last year provided over 130,000 parcels of emergency food to people over the festive period. For those who used a food bank last year, they received a three-day parcel that included these festive extras: 

  • Box of mince pies 
  • Dried fruit and nuts 
  • Christmas crackers (the kind with toys/jokes) Christmas pudding 
  • Chocolate treats for children, e.g. a selection box Tinned ham or salmon
The above was in addition to the standard parcel for three to four which is: 
1 large box of cereal/porridge 
4 tins of vegetables 
3 tins of meat (e.g. ham) or vegetarian alternatives (e.g. kidney beans, lentils and pulses) 
if vegetarian 4 tins of fish (tuna, salmon, sardines etc) 
4 tins of chopped tomatoes 
2 tins of fruit 
4 tins of soup 
4 tins of baked beans 
2 litres of UHT milk 1 litre of long life juice 
2 tins of rice pudding or custard 
1 packet of biscuits Tea or coffee 
1.5kg of pasta/noodles/rice
In my community SHARE Family Services runs the Food Bank and they tell us that Christmas time is a busy one for and a time when they work extra hard to support those in need in our community. They also provide Christmas Hampers and Toys for Children while running various fundraising initiatives such as food drives and their annual Christmas Wrap at Coquitlam Centre.
They remind us that it is also a great time for you to give back and get involved. You can volunteer at our Gift Wrap, host your own food drive or toy drive, raise money, donate food and or come out and volunteer at a Food Drive.
Last year SHARE Family Services provided Christmas Hampers to 1,800 Tri-Cities families. There were also 2,215 children and youth who received their Christmas toys through our Christmas program. The need has not gone down, it has gone up. 
All Food Banks need help at this time of year, so if you can find the time, give of yourself, in addition to giving some money. You will feel good and that is what this time of year is all about, giving not receiving.

Monday, November 5, 2018

Find your local Food Bank

Food Banks are an important part of our social safety net, they are here because of our governments  (Federal, Provincial and Municipal) lack of adequate support many of our neigbours. There are many ideas of what to do about Food Banks and the people who need them. This is not the forum for that discussion. 

Food Banks help so we need to support them.  You may not know that there is a Food Bank Network. The Food Banks Canada network is made up of ten Members (Provincial Associations) and their approximately 450 affiliated food banks (Affiliate Members). The following is from their Website:


"While many people are aware of their local food bank, they may not know just how large the network of food banks across this country is.
We represent ten Provincial Associations, more than 500 Affiliated food banks, and over 3,000 food agencies. Together, we serve approximately 85% of the Canadians who turn to their community food bank or food program for help. Without our network, more than a million people each year would have times where they simply couldn’t put food on the table.
We support our network in a number of ways, including our programs, large-scale food donations made through our National Food Sharing System and our Retail Food Program, and financial support from us and from our donor partners. We also provide support through awareness-raising campaigns that increase the profile of the issue of hunger and through advocacy work that finds longer-term solutions.
If you operate a food bank or agency and are not yet part of our network, please contact your Provincial Association to find out how you can become part of the movement to relieve hunger in Canada."
By going to this link you can find your local Food Bank if you live in Canada. (Click Here). Once you have found your local Food Bank, call them or visit them to see how you can help at this time of year. Please call your local food bank before visiting.