Rimbey Food Bank is gearing up for a busy month, with volunteers working tirelessly to ensure no one in the community goes hungry during this holiday season.
“The response from the community for the food bank has been great this year,” said Katherine Winters, food bank co-ordinator. Volunteers helping and fundraising events have been awesome. The community comes together throughout the year, but even more so at this time of year.”
The downturn in the economy may mean even more people will need to access the services of the food bank this year, said Winters.
During December the food bank gives out one hamper per family containing enough food for a Christmas meal, plus groceries for about four days. Children’s toys are also included in the hamper.
Toys for children of all ages are needed, but often there is slightly less coming in for the older children, and sometimes there are fewer items donated for those who fall into the seven and eight-year-old category, said Winters.
Work bees to put together the hampers are to be held Dec. 3, 10, 12 and 15 (until 4 p.m.) and 16 from 9 a.m. to noon. A work bee will be held on Dec. 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with lunch served.
Volunteers who would like to help may contact the FCSS office at 403-843-2030 to register.
Simpson said donations including food, cash and gifts usually begin to increase in December.
Gifts for newborns to youth up to 18-years-of age are accepted, as well as food items and cash donations.
Applications for the Christmas hamper/children’s gift program will be taken after Dec. 1. Those who wish to apply may call or drop in at the FCSS office located in the provincial building. For more information call FCSS at 403-843-2030.
Applicants must live in the Town of Rimbey or the west half of Ponoka County.
All inquiries are kept strictly confidential.
The food bank is located in the basement of the Nazarene Church and is open Wednesday mornings.
Canned vegetables and fruit, pancake mix and syrup, tinned salmon and applesauce are among the food items needed to keep shelves stocked, but all items are gratefully accepted.