The Bradford Helping Hand Food Bank is in need of community support this holiday season, with demand at an all-time high.
Just a few years ago the Helping Hand Food Bank had a few hundred clients, which grew to around 1,000 last year.
"Now, we are regularly averaging over 1,200 of our neighbours coming to the Food Bank," said the town's food bank liaison, Coun. Jonathan Scott in a letter co-written by Board Chair Brian Febel to the community last week "The need is greater than ever. At the same time, the cost of food is higher than ever. We are committed to meeting that need, but we need your help this holiday season."
Roughly 80 per cent of the food bank's monthly expenses go directly to providing clients with groceries to cover about a week’s worth of food. The remaining expenses cover necessary overhead costs such as insurance, the delivery van and administration.
"Your donation will directly help so many people, right here in our community," said Scott. "Your donation will also help us again to provide our Holiday Food Hampers to hundreds of families and seniors."
Last year, the food bank raised over $100,000 as part of their year-end fundraiser, and are hoping to do the same this year.
"About half that cost will cover the Holiday Food Hampers and the remainder will ensure the Food Bank has the financial resources we need this coming winter," said Scott.
In the new year, the food bank will be getting ready to move into its new 4,500-square-foot space at the community hub on Church Street.
"That move will involve significant capital costs to outfit the space, as well as paying rent for the first time in our history. We are growing to meet the growing need, but that also means we need your support more than ever," said Scott. "The holidays are a time of giving, and we hope you will begin—or continue—your
own holiday tradition by giving to the Food Bank. Thank you so much for your support. We wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays."
To make a monetary donation, visit the Food Bank's website at www.bradfordfoodbank.ca/donate.
