The rising cost of food continues to have a major impact on our local food banks.
It’s no secret that everyone’s trip to the grocery store has hit their wallets harder than in previous years. It could be the reason more people are turning to food banks to put food on the table.
Helen Donovan, Chair of the Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank, said they’ve seen many more new faces in just the past few months.
Donovan said they’ve now opened on Saturday mornings in Cobourg to allow anyone who may have been working during the the week an opportunity to use the food bank.
She said that while the generosity of many donors of both food and money is greatly appreciated and hasn’t slowed down, the increase in usage makes it difficult to keep up with demand.
A recent study from the HKPR District Health unit said that only around 20% of people who meet the definition of food insecure take advantage of food banks and other charities.
Donovan said she hopes that the other 80% and anyone else who feels they need the food bank will take advantage of it.
She added they’re also looking for more volunteers to help alleviate the busier workload.
For more info on Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank, visit their website at fareshare.ca.
Written by Lee McConnell
