Following the recent closure of the Greenwood Food Bank, another local food security group is stepping up – and is sending out the message that they’re here to help.
The Kettle River Food Share recently became an official non-profit society, said newly elected president Riccardo Manazza. The group was formerly under the umbrella of the Food and Resource Society (FAR), but found the work was too diverse to fit under one umbrella. The decision was then made with members of the FAR Society, to incorporate as an official non-profit food share.
Manazza said it is important to note that they are a “food share” rather than a food bank; the regulations on food banks prohibit them from distributing as much fresh produce and doesn’t allow for people to take as much as they need.
“As a food share we can provide more healthy and fresh produce,” he said.
Since the closing of the Greenwood Food Bank last month, volunteer coordinator Vivien Browne said they have already seen an increase in clients.
“Our doors have always been open to Greenwood, we used to supply as much produce as possible to the food bank to help them out and that was the connection we had,” Browne said.
“With more numbers, we have to come up with the money and the food. I don’t think there is a big deal with people coming for food, or us delivering to Greenwood, I don’t think that is the impact. The financial impact will be the biggest thing,” Browne said.
Hunger is a big issue in the West Boundary, Browne said, citing a 2014 Boundary Communities Vital Signs report put out by the Phoenix Foundation that said a third of West Boundary residents live below the poverty line. That’s double both the provincial and federal averages.
“Hunger is double in our community,” she said. “We are already seeing extra clients. The numbers are going up.”
The group is 100 per cent volunteer run and receives no regular funding through grants, Browne said.
Manazza added that they are always looking for volunteers and donations – even recyclable cans and bottles help with the purchasing of food for clients.
“We want to generate awareness in the community, for people to donate cans, bottles, time, whatever,” he said.
Anyone looking to get involved or donate can be in touch with Riccardo Manazza at 250-408-4872 or by email at manazzariccardo@gmail.com, or Vivien Browne at 250-528-7433.