Hunger matters, and our recently completed gathering of Hunger Count demographics tells us a lot about who it matters to here in the Boundary.
Hunger Count is a Food Banks Canada initiative that takes place in March of each year. All affiliated food banks (approximately 550 across Canada — 100 here in B.C.) are required to complete it as part of their membership and many unaffiliated food banks and other food service agencies also participate. Food Banks Canada takes the information and compiles it into a detailed report on food insecurity in individual provinces as well as nationwide. That report is released in November and is an integral part of their advocacy work.
Meanwhile, the demographics for the Boundary Community Food Bank are very similar to last year’s but may contain some surprises for many of you. We provided hampers for 182 households in March; comprised of 251 adults and 86 children. Fourteen per cent of those adults are seniors. The majority of our clients are renters, either in private rentals or social housing, but 16 per cent own their own home (and often live in fear of losing it) and a full 10 per cent were living on the streets, couch-surfing or staying at the emergency shelter.
The number that surprises people the most is income source. The largest group, based on primary source of income, are those on disability, followed by income assistance and then pension. No matter how we look at the numbers, the most vulnerable members of our community – seniors, children and those with a disability – make up 55 per cent of food bank recipients. That’s over half of the people who need our help – who need your help.
There are many ways you can help. Naturally, food and finances are at the top of our wish list but there are numerous other ways. Do you have one or two Tuesday mornings and/or afternoons free most months? Please consider joining our group of incredible volunteers. We also have a small crew who put in a few hours on Monday afternoons preparing for Tuesday openings and other crews who are gathered on an as-needed basis.
If you wish to be even more involved, we will have several openings on our Board of Directors at our upcoming AGM. This will be held on Monday, May 29, 6:30 p.m. at the Food Bank. Regardless of where your personal skills lie, we can find a spot you can use them in while giving back to the community by helping those who need our help. If you have questions about any of these volunteer opportunities, please leave a message at the food bank at 250-442-2800.
Are you eagerly anticipating digging in the dirt? Please consider adding a row, or more, for the food bank. Many of our clients don’t have the resources or are physically unable to grow their own garden and fresh produce is one of the more expensive items we purchase. Salad greens, squash, green beans, peas; it’s all greatly appreciated.
Hunger matters, and it takes a community working together, to help deal with it. Together, our community can do it.