Donation Month: Calgary Food Bank Helps Food Insecure Families and Individuals – Calgary | The Canadian News

For the second year in a row, Global Calgary has partnered with virtually four holiday charities, including the Calgary Food Bank, as part of our Month of Giving campaign.

For 40 years, he has been helping families and individuals facing food emergencies, and the demand for his services is increasing.

In November, 9,000 baskets were distributed, affecting the lives of 38,000 Calgarians.

Shawna Ogston of the Calgary Food Bank says most users turn to the food bank one to three times a year just to close a financial gap.

“A lot of people will say to me, ‘Who uses the Calgary Food Bank?’ And I say, ‘Look in the mirror, it could be you, it could be a neighbor, it could be a family member.’ Everyone is experiencing a crisis on a different level, and when food stress is happening in their lives, no matter which quadrant of the city you come from or what your circumstances are, the Calgary Food Bank is here for you. . “

The Calgary Food Bank knows the mental toll that food insecurity can take on people. That’s why it partners with agencies like Calgary Counseling Center and Distress Center Calgary, so when they spot signs of anxiety or depression, the food bank refers them to the right services.

On the other hand, the Calgary Counseling Center will refer its clients to the food bank if they identify problems of food insecurity.

“Since the pandemic, we’ve seen an increase in people seeking counseling,” says Marcus Cheung of the Calgary Counseling Center.

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Imagine if you are someone who constantly has to worry about whether you have takeout on the table for you and your loved ones. It can be a very stressful experience, ”says Cheung.

“When we work with people who struggle with chronic hunger, people often identify as very anxious, nervous, constantly on edge, feeling a great sense of frustration.”

Cheung says it’s not surprising to see such feelings in those facing food emergencies, because they are constantly in a fight or flight mode, trying to survive.

The Calgary Food Bank relies solely on the support of the community. Dedicated volunteers work on assembly lines to sort food and pack and distribute baskets. In December, Christmas content is added to the baskets so that customers can enjoy a Christmas meal.

A one dollar cash donation can be converted into five dollars worth of food.

“Donations of money also mean that we can purchase specific items needed to fill the baskets, including protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, eggs and cheese,” says Ogston.

Donations of food and products are also welcome, especially diapers.

“If you have a hard time putting food on the table, can you imagine the cost of diapers? That is something we can use in any size; and if your child had changed in size, we will gladly accept those open packets, ”says Ogston, adding that they are also looking for more volunteers for the new year.

“It takes an entire town and community to help those around you,” says Cheung, adding the importance of a good meal not only for our physical health, but also for our mental health.

“The metaphor I use is that you cannot run a car without fuel. Nutritious food is something that will help us maintain a healthy lifestyle and without it we just won’t be fine. “