Recession puts bite on food bank

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: May 30, 2009

The recession has dominated headlines and political debates, but for a growing number of Vernonites, the downturn is cold, hard reality. During the first three months of 2009, 1,825 people walked through the door at the Salvation Army food bank, a 24 per cent hike over last year. “It’s difficult times for people in our town,” said David MacBain, community ministries director. Perceptions abound about who shows up at the food bank, but those views are shattered daily. “We see people who have no income because they are waiting for Employment Insurance to come in,” said MacBain. “They’ve been laid off and they’re not used to coming to us. It’s very humbling.” Specifically in March, the number of people helped climbed 40 per cent from 582 to 814. “We’ve never seen that kind of jump in clients before,” said MacBain. Of those, 61 per cent were on social assistance/disability, nine per cent receive a pension and eight per cent were on EI.

Even having a job doesn’t prevent people from needing help. Ten per cent of the recipients in March were employed. “They just can’t make ends meet with the dollars they are paid,” said MacBain, adding that many people are paying more for rent, transportation and utilities and that leaves them little if nothing for food. The number of children assisted in March climbed to 248, up from 187 during the same month in 2008. While demand is swelling, the average cost for a food hamper has jumped 133 per cent in the last five years. That places significant pressure on the Salvation Army’s limited financial resources. “It’s onerous on us. The kettle (fundraising) campaign didn’t increase 133 per cent but we still need to serve people,” said MacBain. That’s why the Salvation Army is urging residents, businesses and service clubs to donate non-perishable food items or money. “We’re still counting on the public to see the need and respond,” said MacBain. “Donations have increased but the number of people needing assistance has increased more so.”

Food and money will be collected at the 33rd annual Creative Chaos from June 5 to 7. “Without the generosity of the Creative Chaos organizers, and those attending this craft event, the food bank would most certainly run short of a sufficient supply of nutritious foods to offer those in need,” said MacBain.

The Salvation Army food bank is located at 3303 32nd Ave. in downtown Vernon.