Hunger is a year round reality for many families.
Food banks across Canada are often in dire need to replenish their stocks during the spring as the demands during the winter season has depleted their food supplies.
To help, Loblaw Companies Limited and its banner stores recently kicked off the 2012 Extra Helping spring national food drive to help combat hunger in their communities.
Nationally, Loblaw’s goal is to raise $1.2 million and 1.2 million pounds of food in 2012.
In Ontario from April 20 to May 5, grocery shoppers are encouraged to purchase or bring in non-perishable food items or make a cash donation next time they visit their local Loblaws, Loblaw great food, Fortinos, Zehrs Markets, Zehrs Great Food, Independent – Your Independent Grocer, Valu-mart, No Frills and Real Canadian Superstore.
“While most people think about the joys of spring, it’s a difficult time for us. At this time of year our food supplies are getting lower while the need is still incredibly high and, in many areas, even growing,” said Bill Laidlaw, executive director, Ontario Association of Food Banks (OAFB).
“More and more people rely on food banks as they struggle to feed their families but with the help of programs … we will be able to stock our shelves year-round, and continue to serve families across Ontario that otherwise would go hungry.”
One hundred per cent of food donated, and 85 per cent of the cash donated, go to local Ontario food banks.
The remaining 15 per cent of donated cash goes to the Ontario Association of Food Banks in support of provincial food bank programs.
According to Food Banks Canada, the most needed non-perishable items include: pasta products, rice, canned meat and fish, dry and canned soups and stews, canned fruit and vegetables, flour, hot and cold cereals, whole grain cereals, peanut butter, aseptic packaged or canned and powdered milk, fruit juices, pasta sauce, beans and legumes, infant formula and baby food.
