At this time of year when we're all preparing to sit down and feast with family and friends, food always seems to be an integral part of the celebrations. But for some people, putting food on the table is an on-going struggle as they try to survive in uncertain economic times.
Food Banks Canada, formerly the Canadians Association of Food Banks, does an annual report on hunger in Canada titled HungerCount 2008. Their report shows that since 1997, an average of 700 000 people request food bank services and between a third and half of those who need the services are children.
Many people are surprised to hear that it's not just the unemployed or those on assistance who access food banks, but that many people who have jobs are also using food bank services. The reason is that many jobs do not pay enough to cover all the necessities; often some Canadians are forced to choose between paying their housing costs or putting food on the table. And now the number of working people who access food banks is growing, as costs go up and the stability of some job sectors remains uncertain.
It's so important that at this time of year we celebrate and gift those we love, but we should also think of those in our communities who may not be as fortunate we are. Food banks need donations to make sure that every person or family who walks through their doors can have good, healthy food on their tables.
Your local food bank is always looking for the following basic items:
Peanut Butter
Whole Grain Cereal
Juice
Dried pasta and Tomato sauce
Macaroni and cheese
Canned fruits and vegetables
Canned meat or fish
Rice
Lentils and beans
Canned soups or stew
Healthy snack items (such as granola bars)
Tetra pak, canned, or powdered milk
Personal hygiene items
Baby formula, food and diapers
Your local food bank may have specific needs, so check with your local food drives to find out if they need any particular items. Food banks also need fresh items, such as dairy, meat and produce, so if you are unable to donate food, a financial donation will enable the food bank to purchase these items.
Have a happy and festive holiday season, and I hope everyone is warm, well-loved and can feast and enjoy the blessings of the year.
