As the RCL Automotive Build a Mountain of Food campaign prepares to visit Perth this Saturday, the local food bank is sharing a troubling picture of just how many neighbours are struggling to put food on the table.
Amica Hewitt, coordinator of the Good Food Bank at The Table Community Food Centre, says the past year has brought a steady stream of people seeking help for the first time.
Between 25 and 50 new individuals register each month.
The food bank now serves more than 550 people from approximately 230 households every month. About one-third of the groceries distributed are destined for children 18 and younger.
Hewitt says those seeking help come from every walk of life, including working families, single adults and retirees who never expected to need a food bank.
Many arrive feeling embarrassed or ashamed.
The Good Food Bank also works to make the experience more comfortable for those who need assistance.
Rather than simply handing out prepacked boxes, the organization uses a shopping model that allows people to select groceries that meet their household’s needs.
Hewitt explains how it works.
That of course is at no cost.
For those living in rural areas who struggle with transportation, the food bank also provides a limited number of deliveries.
Hewitt says community generosity remains essential as more households face difficult financial decisions.
That support will be front and centre Saturday, November 14, when Build a Mountain of Food collects donations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Metro, Barnabe’s Your Independent Grocer, Foodsmiths and Giant Tiger in Perth.e
Donations will also be collected from 9 a.m. to noon at the United Church in Lanark, supporting the Lanark Food Bank.
Listen to our full interview with Amica Hewitt below.