The RCL Automotive Build a Mountain of Food campaign is heading into its second weekend, and for two local food banks, the timing couldn’t be better.
Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, the campaign visits Perth and Lanark on Saturday, November 14, with volunteers collecting food and cash donations for neighbours who need a helping hand.
Leanne Schonauer, vice-president and fundraising co-ordinator with the Lanark Highlands Food Pantry, says they’re helping between 70 and 100 families every month.
Donations have slowed, forcing the organization to make additional appeals for help over the summer.
And some of the people coming through the doors might surprise you.
In Perth, the Good Food Bank at The Table Community Food Centre is facing similar pressures, serving more than 550 people every month.
Co-ordinator Amica Hewitt says their off-site storage facility is looking pretty empty these days.
That’s why the annual campaign is so important.
Back in Lanark, Schonauer says the food pantry has some very specific needs that people might not immediately think about when making a donation.
One involves families with young children.
Fresh produce is another ongoing need for the Lanark food pantry.
In Perth, Hewitt says high-protein pantry staples, including canned meats, beans and peanut butter, are always welcome.
Shoppers at Metro and Barnabe’s Your Independent Grocer can also purchase prepared bags filled with much-needed groceries.
But food isn’t the only way to help. Cash is king.
Hewitt says that financial support helps the food bank plan purchases and keep a dependable selection of groceries available throughout the year.
And every little bit counts!
The RCL Automotive Build a Mountain of Food campaign takes place Saturday, November 14, at the following locations:
Perth – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Metro Perth, Barnabe’s Your Independent Grocer, Foodsmiths and Giant Tiger. All donations support the Good Food Bank at The Table.
Lanark – 9 a.m. to noon: United Church in Lanark, supporting the Lanark Highlands Food Pantry.
Whether it’s a bag of groceries, a few dollars or simply stopping by to encourage the volunteers, both food banks say community support makes all the difference.
And after 20 years, Build a Mountain of Food is still proving that when neighbours come together, great things happen.
Visit the RCL Automotive Build a Mountain of Food Page here.
And stop by our BAM page for more stories from the campaign here.