Community needs increase at County Food Bank

Director Pat Romkey shares an update on the Picton United Church Food Bank:

Many of you don’t know that “Pathway” volunteers, Lucy and Skippy, and helpers, clean the food bank every Monday morning. This group of dedicated volunteers vacuum, dust and mop the entire food bank area as well as the storage rooms. We just want to acknowledge their hard work and say “thank you”.

This summer the steps going into the food bank and the food bank external door have been repaired, cemented and painted thanks to an anonymous donation.

The Wednesday morning recycling card board pick-up has now been reinstated thanks to Randy, from Community Living. Nothing goes to waste in our food bank.

Thanks, too, to the volunteers from the Second Time Around Shop. They always step up to the plate replacing broken down appliances, supplying dress clothes needed for funerals and such things as beds and sheets. They are always available to lend a hand.

Unfortunately, our community needs are forever increasing.
We are up 58 people compared to June of last year. In June 2011 there were 82 requests (10 new clients) and we served 134 adults, 29 teens and 105 children. In June 2012, there were 106 requests (7 new clients) serving 187 adults, 30 teens and 109 children.

We are up 54 people compared to July of last year. In three weeks in July 2011 we had 63 requests (six new clients) serving 108 adults, 26 teens and 72 children. In July 2012 we had 86 requests (11 new clients) serving 146 adults, 29 teens and 85 children.

A food drive continues at Sobey’s through to the end of the month. People may make contributions on their own, buy pre-filled bags or certificates that we will use to buy perishable products as we need them such as milk, meat, fresh fruit and vegetables and bread.

On the always needed at the food bank list are: pancakes and syrup, cereal, peanut butter, puddings, juices, canned veggies, fruit and pasta.

As director of the food bank, I extend a warm invitation to anyone wanting a tour to see how the community needs are served. If you have inquiries, please don’t hesitate to call 613 476 8516.

With continued thanks and appreciation
Pat Romkey
Food Bank Director