Submitted by Linda Godhue
Recent media stories speak about the increased use of Foodbanks for those facing Food Insecurity. Our Community is no different. But in the case of the Tobermory Food Bank, support has not only been sustaining, but increasing as well. We receive continued support from individuals, organizations and Churches, but many have stepped up to donate, especially during the holiday times in support of our distribution of Holiday Hampers.
Just before Christmas the Northern Bruce Rotary Club made very generous donations to the Tobermory and Lion’s Head Food Banks.
As well, many individuals donated with the request that their donations be used to help with the cost of the Hampers. These donations come at a time when the Tobermory Food Bank purchases many items to provide a full Hamper of items for those most in need. This past Christmas we were able to provide 27 Christmas Hampers. We were pleased to receive donations of snacks and candy, as well Soaps from the Georgian Bay Soap Company to make the Hampers a bit more special at this Festive time.
But, as we have said, there are individuals, organizations, and businesses who donate and support in many ways on a continual basis. This past December, the OPP Stuff the Cruiser event once again helped replenish our shelves in anticipation of winter demand. And the Tobermory Food Bank is fortunate to receive food and grocery items from Peacock’s Foodland as part of the Food Rescue Program. And we are very grateful for the individuals who routinely make donations.
The Tobermory Food Bank could not operate without the dedicated volunteers who give of their time in many ways to support our work. We have welcomed new volunteers in the past year, another indicator of the support the community of Tobermory provides.
Yes, there is an increase in need for Foodbanks, and the predictors indicate that will continue in the future, but this particular column is about the continuing support the Tobermory Food Bank receives from a caring community.
If you have any questions about the Tobermory Food Bank or are interested in volunteering, please call Linda at 519-596-2333 or Jim at 519-375-7010 or Jennifer at 519-596-2188.
Also there are many ways to donate; by e-transfer at tobermoryfoodbank@gmail.com, by mailing a cheque to Jennifer Dewey at 211 Eagle Rd.,Tobermory N0H 2R0. Cash donations of over twenty dollars receive a tax receipt. Food Donations can be dropped off at the Tobermory Post Office during regular business hours. Donations such as peanut butter, cereals, canned pasta, tuna, salmon or ham flakes. Also welcomed is soups of all kinds, but especially Chunky style, Pasta and pasta sauce and Kraft Dinner.
Happy New Year and Keep Staying Well and Safe.
