By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: October 03
Quick public action has meant that Vernon’s Salvation Army can continue to serve the hungry. Donations to the food bank have spiked since an article in The Morning Star Sept. 19 highlighted how contributions had plummeted and shelves were running bare. “We are in a much better place than we were a couple of weeks ago,” said David MacBain, community ministries director. “I want to thank the public for coming to our aid. We have had businesses, service clubs and schools raising food for us and there have also been individual donations.” Cash donations have allowed the church to purchase food items that are desperately needed. Two weeks ago, the shelves had been their barest in a decade, and the food bank was unable to meet its own requirements for filling hampers. But even with an upswing in donations now, demand for assistance is high. “On Thursday, we had twice as many people show up for hampers than had appointments with us,” said MacBain. Year to date, 2,516 clients have been helped by the food bank compared to 2,297 during the same time in 2007. The primary reason for the increase is the rising cost of food, rent and gas cutting into the limited household budgets. MacBain anticipates that the current influx in donations will allow the Salvation Army to keep filling donations until early December when pre-Christmas food drives begin. Currently, donations of some specific items are still required, including canned meat and stew, tinned tomatoes and personal hygiene products. Fresh fruit and vegetables from backyard gardens is also being sought.
To support the food bank, drop by 3303 32nd Avenue or call 549-4111.
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