Kerri Abbott, chairperson for the Saint Vincent de Paul food bank in Carbonear, calls for help to stock the shelves before Christmas. (John Pike)
The demand for food banks has reached unprecedented levels, especially during the holiday season, according to organizers.
Last week, CBC Radio's The Signal conducted a live broadcast from the Saint Vincent de Paul Carbonear Food Bank, where a growing lineup of clients formed outside the door during the Feed N.L. day campaign. The day was bustling with activity as staff and volunteers distributed Christmas hampers to those in need.
Kerri Abbott, chairperson of the food bank, had earlier sought public assistance through social media, revealing a shortage of basic items for regular hampers and nothing prepared for Christmas hampers. Despite the plea, Abbott found herself turning away people in need due to bare shelves.
Clients are facing extreme conditions, with some having to wear snowsuits indoors to cut costs on heating, highlighting the challenges of living in such circumstances.
Mildred Fitzgerald, a dedicated volunteer, expressed the stress of trying to maintain stocked shelves amid the surging demand, noting an increase in clients and more significant challenges than in her 12 years of volunteering.
The community responded generously to the plea for help, contributing both food and money to the Christmas hamper initiative. Powell's Supermarket played a crucial role in supporting the food bank during this challenging time.
Valerie Morgan, marketing co-ordinator for Powell's Supermarket, acknowledged the heightened need this year and emphasized the tremendous effort by the food bank crew in addressing the crisis.
Kaitlin Clarke, the food bank's communications and outreach co-ordinator, stressed the importance of community contributions, no matter how small, as every donation makes a difference.
Clients at the food bank shared their stories, illustrating the diverse challenges they face, from health conditions preventing work to relying on the food bank for years during both good and bad times.
The Feed N.L. campaign continues until the end of the month, donations can be made through cbc.ca/bekind or the Community Food Sharing Association for specific food banks.
