2022 has been a record setting year at the Food Bank

Given 2022’s unique difficulties, Savanna Dee isn’t surprised so many people are using the Powell River Action Society Food Bank this year.

The agency is feeding 528 households, over 700 individuals. Most of them are not recieving welfare.

“Our stats used to stay the same because people would need us and then they wouldn’t anymore,” said Savanna, noting she has recently added another 95 accounts to the roster. “Our largest demographic is aged 47 to 70 and on disability assistance. We also feed 131 children consistently.”

The cost of food is also impacting the food bank. Normally, a weekly bag for a single person costs $48, and includes peanut butter, soup, beans, oatmeal, tuna, milk, eggs, fresh vegetables and more. Now, that same bag costs $80 – no surprise to anyone who has shopped for groceries lately.

Savanna says those bags are helped tremendously by three things. First, the eggs, canned fish and peanut butter are made available to her cheaply, thanks to a program through Food Banks Canada. Second, local donors, such as Aaron Mazurek at Terra Nostra Farm, who gave over $17,000 in fresh organics last year, and Mother Nature, who recently donated a pallet of cat and dog food. And third, holiday fundraising.

LOCALS FEEDING LOCALS: Powell River Action Society Food Bank intake worker Melissa Tookey organizes baskets of locally-grown produce from Terra Nostra Farm. Aaron Mazurek’s farm donated $17,000 worth of produce last year, feeding more than 700 people.

“It’s a crucial time,” she said. “We could not be open without the generosity of our community. We rely on it.”

Seasonal fundraising that supports the food bank includes Stuff the Trailer at FreshCo, the Winter Wonderland Hamper Skate, Brooks Students for Change Jingle Jog, donation bins at Quality Foods, and more. You can also donate directly via the website, powellriverfoodbank.com, where there is a Pay- Pal button, or mail a cheque. Savanna writes tax receipts for donations of $20 and up.

Some of her most generous donors are former Food Bank clients. “People donate when they get back on their feet. It’s pretty amazing,” said Savanna.