Wednesday, April 27, 2022 Vol. 45, No. 17
Your LOCAL Paper
Food Bank looking for help keeping shelves stocked Organizers say the Viking and Holden and Area Food Bank has experienced a 31 per cent increase in food hamper use in the first three months of 2022, compared with the same period of time in 2021. From January 1 to April 1, 2022, there have been a total of 76 hampers prepared and 187 individuals have been provided with a one week supply of food. There are various reasons for the need for food hampers: 1) People applying or waiting for benefits 2) Health issues 3) Lack of or looking for work 4) Rising cost of living and unexpected expenses 5) Low income 6) Other reasons Recipients range in age from 18 years of age and under (31 per cent), 18 to 65 years (53 per cent), 55 plus years (16 per cent). Adult recipients only, adults with dependents, and single recipients equally account for the hampers. “We strive to provide healthy foods consisting of a variety of canned and dry goods as well as frozen meat, fresh produce, dairy, and bakery items,” said organizer Donna Congdon. Extra items may be requested and will be provided if they are available on our shelves. If deemed necessary, some items are purchased as needed. These would include such items as feminine hygiene products, pampers, toilet paper, soap, toiletries, etc. Pet food is supplied only if donated to the Food Bank. There is a volunteer pool of 16 male and female individuals. New volunteers are always welcome. Each week, two to four volunteers prepare hampers every Wednesday morning. The size of each hamper is determined by the number of individuals in the family and special need required. FCSS partners with our Food Bank to assess individual client needs, accept donations, prepare emergency hampers, and in so many other ways. They are a critical part of our Food Bank operation. The Food Bank is also in need of staples for our Standard Hampers. Donations of non-perishable food items as well as monetary donations are very much appreciated. Receipts can be issued for monetary or large donations. Thank you to all who donate. Donations can be made at the FCSS office at 4924 53 avenue, Viking, AB, T0B 4N0. Office hours are Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Viking and Holden area mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. You can also drop off donations at the donation boxes in the churches in Viking. Donation boxes are also located at participating banks, grocery stores, and the Carena in Viking. Donations may also be left at the Village Office in Holden.
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SUPPLIES GETTING LOW