An Update from the CEO

Never before have we been so full of pride to say we are community owned and community supported. Every day we hear of generosity, words of encouragement and the desire to help your neighbours in need.

In the last two weeks, we have worked diligently, implementing our pandemic response plan. It includes complex logistics that ensure thousands of people receive Essential Food Hampers through revised processes. The impact is considerable, and we continue to be focused on providing food and services while ensuring safety. We acted immediately but our systems are built to last.

We adapted quickly and were able to implement sweeping changes that have us distributing more than 360 hampers per day in a safe-distancing, drive-thru distribution model. Safe distances are also ensured and reinforced for staff and volunteers as they create hampers, sort donations or answer the Hamper Request phone line. We have also increased our PPE for front line roles.

All our programs continue to run at this time, with the exception of those programs associated with schools. Food Link, our program to distribute food and supplies to our agency partners, continues to provide needed food essentials for shelters as well as other community agencies as they reopen. We are currently using a pick and pack model where agencies can order and pick up directly from our warehouse.

We advocated with all levels of government on behalf of the thousands of people who rely on us. Our advocating ensured that for the first time ever Food Banks are now considered an essential service in the Province of Alberta.

This is another chapter in a city coming together around food. Despite the challenges and sorrows, local businesses, artists, students, youth, seniors and more continue to support their neighbours. Donations of food, funds and time ring through our communities and through the Food Bank.

This is a new reality with an uncertain future for everyone and that’s why we are working hard now to help ensure no one should struggle with hunger at this difficult and challenging time.

Thank you for all your well wishes, cheers and supports. You give us the strength to continue safely sharing food and connecting people with other great community resources. Your support allows us to be an essential service today as well as tomorrow.

Wishing everyone health and happiness,
James McAra