Rob Rainer, ED of the Table CFC
The holiday season is approaching, but for many families in Perth and Smiths Falls, putting food on the table remains a year-round challenge.
The Table Community Food Centre is preparing for its busiest time of year, with Executive Director Rob Rainer saying the months between October and January are especially important for the organization.
It’s a period known as the season of giving, when The Table depends heavily on donations from individuals, families, businesses and community groups to support its programs.
But Rainer says the need for those services reflects a much larger problem.
Rising costs continue to put pressure on household budgets, leaving many people struggling to afford basic necessities.
For some, asking for help can be difficult.
Rainer says The Table works hard to make everyone who walks through its doors feel welcome.
Rainer believes food insecurity is closely tied to income insecurity and says longer-term solutions will require stronger action from provincial and federal governments.
He has long supported the idea of a basic income and believes public policy needs to do more to address the widening financial gap between households.
In the meantime, The Table continues its daily work through seven programs serving people in Perth and Smiths Falls.
That includes food assistance, community meals and opportunities for social connection.
Rainer says the organization is fortunate to have a strong network of supporters who recognize the importance of helping their neighbours.
One of the biggest opportunities to lend a hand is coming November 14, when the RCL Automotive Build a Mountain of Food campaign makes its annual stop in Perth.
Now in its 20th year, the campaign will collect food and cash donations at Independent, Metro, FoodSmiths and Giant Tiger.
Rainer encourages residents to stop by, meet the volunteers and learn more about the work being done in their communities.
