The annual appreciation reception and general meeting for the Centre Wellington Food Bank was held May 30 in the basement of St. James Anglican Church in Fergus.
Thirty-one awards were given to businesses, organizations, families, and community groups for their continued support of the food bank in the past year.
In thanking the recipients, food bank chair and president, Jackie Andrews, said “we are fortunate that we live in a community that is so caring and so supportive of our food bank and in turn, it’s clients.”
Polycorp Limited and the Grand River Agricultural Society were given Crystal Awards, recognizing their outstanding support to the food bank.
Polycorp was honoured for the weekly donations of fresh bread loaves, while Grand River Agricultural Society was honoured for their long-term support of the food bank and its Christmas Hamper program.
Centre Wellington Mayor Kelly Linton praised the food bank manager, board, and volunteers for their work in filling this need in the community, fighting to end hunger and for social justice in the area.
“The sad News is the demand for the food bank continues to grow in this community” said Linton.
“It is great the food bank is there, but sad that its needed.”
Guest speakers, food bank manager Fred Aleksandrowicz and a food bank client, shared many reasons why a resident of Centre Wellington needs the food bank. Food insecurity, housing instability, poor employment opportunities, and family breakdown were listed as main reasons for accessing the food bank.
A powerful speech given by a client, shared her journey to the food bank and the resiliency she demonstrates on a daily basis.
The client story demonstrated that the support she received was provided in a dignified, respectful and non-judgemental way.
Andrews stated in 2017, the organization served 665 residents on a monthly basis. This included 286 families, 235 children, and 175 individuals who are over the age of 50.
In addition to these programs, the organization also has two computers clients can use, a lending library, clothing room, outdoor wear, tax preparation services, and warm referrals can be provided to social services such as Legal Aid and Ontario Works/Ontario Disability Support Program.
For more information call, e-mail or visit the food bank in person or online at cwfoodbank.org.
Group tours can be arranged.
