By Lyonel Doherty, Times Chronicle
Inflation is playing havoc on the Oliver Food Bank which is struggling to meet demand.
Volunteers are having difficulty keeping up with people’s needs in the community, with the number of clients increasing by more than 22 per cent this year (from January until the end of May).
Donations have also decreased, according to food bank administration. Financial donations received from January 1 to May 31 this year are down by 23 per cent compared to the same period in 2021.
The amount of food and personal care items donated during this period has decreased by 44 per cent.
“Increased costs along with decreased donations are causing stress on the food bank to continue to provide hampers for the most vulnerable in our community,” said food bank president Jon Kurnik.
He noted they have been able to meet the needs of their clients through the use of reserve funds. “But those funds are decreasing and we do not want to get to the point of running out of food and/or funds to support our clients.”
Approximately 121 singles and 53 families access the food bank once or more every month.
In May, it distributed hampers containing enough food for approximately 5,000 meals.
The most needed items for hampers include: fruit juice, oatmeal, granola bars, canned soup, canned tuna or salmon, canned fruit, canned vegetables, dry pasta, rice, beans, macaroni and cheese, and jam.
Non-food items include shampoo, toilet paper, feminine hygiene, deodorant, laundry soap, and pet food.
Kurnik points to inflation (cost of food) as the primary cause of the increase in client numbers. The same can be said for the decrease in donations.
“Some donors have had to completely stop donating to the food bank while others are able to donate but their donations are smaller than in the past.”
Kurnik said their clients come from all segments of the population.
“We have seniors who cannot stretch their limited income to cover all the basic costs of living. The same is true for some families who need help to try to ensure their children have the amount of food they need to grow and develop as they should.”
He noted they also help transient farm workers but not on the same level as permanent residents.
“We believe no person should go hungry and that everyone has the right to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food which meets their dietary needs,” Kurnik said.
The Oliver Food Bank is 100 per cent volunteer-based with no paid staff.
Local businesses are encouraged to donate their services, such as basic landscaping, cleaning, and painting.
Anyone who is interested in donating food, money or services can call 250-535-0566. You can also donate online by visiting oliverfoodbank.com.
