With the price of just about everything on the rise, relying on a food bank can be a big help. Here’s what you need to know.
If you’re struggling with high prices, especially the rising cost of groceries, you’re far from alone.
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Food bank visits are soaring across Canada, especially in places like Metro Vancouver where housing costs far exceed what people can afford on an average income. Food Banks B.C. reports “staggering numbers of new clients” in recent years.
We asked Emma Nelson of the Greater Vancouver Food Bank and Vijay Naidu of the Surrey Food Bank to help us understand the process and answer questions people might have about reaching out.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re struggling and need to put food on the table for you and your family:
What is the process for someone looking for help?
The food bank will then talk to you about your level of need and arrange regular pickups, or delivery for those with mobility issues or who can’t attend in person for other reasons.
What do you say to those who feel bad about visiting a food bank?
“There is no ‘type of person’ that relies on the food bank, and we aim to support all those who are experiencing food insecurity,” says Nelson.
Naidu agrees, saying the Surrey agency strives for a “welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We understand the hesitation some may feel, and we assure everyone that our services are judgment-free and designed to support those in need with dignity.”
As Nelson points out, food insecurity ranges “from having to buy exclusively low-cost/low-nutrition foods (to) simply not being able to afford groceries at all because the bank account is empty.” As food is often last on the list after ongoing costs like housing and utilities, she assures “we are here to help.”
Is it like going shopping or do food banks provide prepared hampers?
This depends on which food bank you use. GVFB offers weekly pickups where you can collect items based on your family size. They also provide nutritional program packs once a month to families with more vulnerable age groups such as babies, children and seniors.
In Surrey-North Delta, Naidu says it’s a “shopping-style experience” where you can choose items based on your diet, cultural preferences and need. Surrey Food Bank also has a weekly hamper service geared to expectant mothers and those with newborns.
What are some tips when using a food bank?
Do call ahead to book an appointment and know what documents you need, advises Naidu. But “don’t feel ashamed. Our services exist to support you during challenging times. We also don’t tolerate any kind of abuse towards our volunteers, staff or fellow clients.”
Another tip is to plan a visit during quieter hours so it’s not as hectic an experience.
What are the strains of the holidays, and how do you prepare for the surge in demand?
“The holiday season brings both challenges and opportunities,” says Naidu. “We aim to provide special items like turkey, ham or whole chicken to clients.”
For Surrey, that is complicated by the diversity of the clientele, such as needing to find halal products for the 40 per cent of clients of Middle Eastern refugee backgrounds.
Are there other ways to access food and supplies?
The Province Empty Stocking Fund is a resource for families in need, especially around the holidays.
For 106 years, The Province’s Empty Stocking Fund has been dedicated to making the holidays brighter for B.C. residents who are less-fortunate. With the generosity of our readers and supporters, the fund gives money to 25 B.C. community groups that provide food hampers and gifts to children, needy families and single people.