This year has been challenging for charities nationwide, with increased demand and decreased donations affecting organizations like the Surrey Food Bank.
Executive director Kim Savage reveals that despite continuously setting records for monthly usage, their numbers show no signs of slowing down. With around 22,000 client visits per month, the food bank is under significant pressure to meet the rising needs of the community.
Over the holidays, the food bank served between 550 and 600 families on Dec. 23 and 24, highlighting the ongoing struggle to keep up with demand.
To address the growing need, the food bank has collaborated with various organizations to share resources, ensuring a steady supply of food for all clients. This partnership approach has resulted in increased availability and quality of food distributed.
Looking towards the future, Savage remains cautiously hopeful about meeting the escalating demand in 2026. Planning for continued growth, the food bank aims to enhance collaborations to better serve the community.
While maintaining optimism, Savage acknowledges the challenges faced by charities and emphasizes the importance of community support in sustaining their operations.
Amidst the holiday season, Savage urges people not to forget about their local food bank, as the emotional toll of witnessing families in need can be taxing on staff members. The Surrey Food Bank accepts both food and monetary donations to support their mission.
According to Food Banks Canada, over 2 million individuals across the country rely on food banks each month, with nearly 30% of them experiencing food shortages before all demands are met.