The Hunger Stop's New Home as of November at 115 Industrial Ave in Carleton Place (MBC News)
The Hunger Stop, Lanark County’s food bank, is preparing to move into what it calls its permanent home at 115 Industrial Avenue, with renovations planned to improve operations and ensure the organization can continue serving the growing needs of the community. Hunger Stop’s manager Tammy Parent tells us how the move is progressing.
The move comes at a time when food banks across Canada are facing financial pressure. But the Hunger Stop is focused on long-term stability rather than cutbacks. Just the renovation work on their new home is proof of that according to Parent.
Like every food bank, the number of residents served by the Hunger Stop continues to grow at an exponential rate. Manager Tammy Parent says the redesigned facility will improve efficiency and provide a more organized space for staff, volunteers and clients, all of which is greatly needed.
Those are monthly stats. The Hunger Stop serves a 770-square-kilometre area stretching from White Lake to Franktown and Ashton to Innisville, including Almonte, Pakenham, Carleton Place, Clayton and Beckwith Township. Parent says the financial pictures of users has changed drastically as well as their numbers, and many would be surprised to know food banks are not just for low-income households any more.
The organization also offers food delivery for residents who cannot visit the food bank because of mobility or transportation challenges. Another little known fact is the total reliance of the Hunger Stop on private donations according to Parent.
Founded in 1988, The Hunger Stop is supported by a volunteer board, two paid staff members and over 180 volunteers who help provide food, maintain community gardens and support the food bank’s day-to-day operations. Parent notes they’re always on the hunt for volunteer drivers to deliver food. Parent has a message everyone needs to hear and understand.
To find out how you can help, go to lanarkcountyfoodbank.ca.
Story by Brian Turner
