The Cranbrook Foodbank Society is calling on the community to dig deep this holiday season.
With support from donors, the society says it can help build a stronger community- where no one is hungry, food is not wasted, and everyone is inspired to give back.
Cranbrook Foodbank Society Operations Manager Julie Rose emphasizes the importance of giving back, whether it’s through monetary actions or just being kind.
“We know times are tough right now and everyone is having to dig a little deeper. If you’re able to give that’s fantastic, but there are so many acts of kindness that we can all do in the community. Whether it’s shoveling the sidewalk for a neighbor, opening the door for someone, or giving a compliment, we can all just spread a little bit of kindness.” Julie said
The non-profit group has many events throughout the year, including the Cranbrook Turkey Drive. The annual campaign is supported by the Salvation Army and numerous community volunteers. Donations to the drive help fund holiday food hampers for individuals and families in need.
Donations to the Turkey Drive or food donations directly to the food bank are a great way to give back this holiday season.
Rose said food bank clients often face stigma, even though 27 per cent of Cranbrook users are employed.
“What we’re seeing is having a job is not necessarily a guaranteed pathway out of poverty anymore.” said Julie.
One in three patrons are children under the age of 19. Rose noted that there is no single demographic in need of food assistance- clients include entrepreneurs, teachers and seniors.
The Cranbrook Food Society has many partnerships who help them with their mission of collecting and distributing free food to those in need. One of their partners, Save On Foods, just donated 100 turkeys to the Emergency Food Hampers program.
Julie thanked the Cranbrook community for their continued support.
“We literally cannot do our work without the support of everyone in Cranbrook, so thank you!”
Donations can be dropped off Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
