By Lyonel Doherty
The Oliver Food Bank is doing its best to continue operating in the midst of COVID-19.
Treasurer Julie VanDusen said staff have seen the effects of the pandemic in the fact no food was dropped off as per usual on Wednesday.
“What we fear, but we don’t know this yet, is that our donations may go down,” she said. “People are focusing on their own needs and I understand that.”
VanDusen said they’ve had to adjust their operations by changing how they distribute food.
Hampers are pre-made and when clients come by, staff check their identification cards and give them the food through the exit door.
“We’re just handling it in a responsible way, so we’re not exposed to them and they’re not exposed to us.”
VanDusen said they don’t want to discourage clients but have to follow some guidelines.
Going forward, she’s hoping the public continues donating during the pandemic.
“This community is a really giving community but it’s a tough time (right now). Some food banks have closed, but we’re doing our best not to.”
