If a sector reported 32% growth in one year, investors would jump for joy. They would jump even higher if that sector had grown a total of 79% over 4 years; averaging growth of nearly 20% annually from 2019. Yes, these numbers are real, but sadly they represent the increase in visits to Canadian food banks.
It’s no secret that inflation and the rising cost of food has put stress on households, just one look at the news confirms that more and more Canadians are experiencing food insecurity and relying on emergency relief. Meanwhile, the chorus from food banks is an urgent cry for help as they attempt to keep up with demand that is growing at an alarming rate.
I am in my second year as Chair of the Board at the Depot Community Food Centre, so this year the Peter Guay Team at PWL is making our annual holiday donation to The Depot.
Like most food security organizations, the Depot is responding to the needs of the community despite the rising cost of food. In 2023 we are on track to provide 20,000 emergency food baskets, double the amount of 2022. Sadly, we have had to decrease the size of our emergency food baskets by 1/3 in order to help as many homes as we can, which is still not enough to meet the demand.
The work of the Depot goes well beyond emergency food. The RestoDepot offers delicious meals served at your table in a warm and welcoming environment, for a scant $2 suggested donation. The Depot also continues to fight food insecurity through our youth food literacy program, providing cooking classes for elementary school children with a focus on health and nutrition. And our community and collective gardens recently wrapped up another successful season.
The struggles of the Depot are not unique, food security organizations across the country are in crisis. So, I am adding my voice to the chorus asking for help. Should the spirit of the giving season strike you, please consider supporting your local food bank. Our responsibility as members of vibrant and resilient communities and as human beings cannot end at our own doorsteps.
Food Bank Resources and Directories:
Food Banks Canada
Banques Alimentaires du Québec
Moisson Montréal