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. So far, several businesses in Rimbey have stepped up to the plate to help out with fundraisers.
These business include Red Apple, who will hold a toy drive on Dec. 9 and also will donate 10 per cent of their toy sales for that day.
Canalta held a Fill the Sled day on Nov. 29 and Minor Hockey collected food items at the arena for the Food Bank.
Magic Suds Truck Wash, ATB and Stationery, Stories and Sounds are all collecting items for the food bank.
Boxes for food and toys were set out on Santa Night held last Friday.
“The shelves (at the food bank) are looking pretty good,” said Winters. “Donations keep coming in. It’s nice to see.”
The number of people using the food bank has stabilized since doubling two years ago when the downturn of the economy was at its strongest.
During December the food bank gives out one hamper per family containing enough food for a Christmas meal, plus groceries for about four days. Childrens’ toys are also included in the hamper. Last year 72 hampers were distributed.
Toys for children of all ages are needed, but often there is slightly less coming in for the older children, and sometimes there are less items donated for those who fall into the seven and eight-year-old category, said Winters.
Work bees for the Rimbey Food Bank/ Christmas Hamper Program are December 6, 13 and 18 from 9 a.m. to noon. Call the F.C.S.S. office at 843-2030 to register and for more information.
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 beginning Dec. 1. Those who wish to apply may call or drop in at the FCSS office located in the provincial building.
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.