The Summerland Food Bank and Resource Centre is preparing for an increased demand during this year’s holiday season.
“We’re experiencing a higher demand,” said John Bubb of the food bank.
In December 2023, the food bank distributed holiday hampers to 170 families in the community. This year, organizers are planning for between 170 and 200 hampers.
Bubb said several factors have contributed to the increased demand this year. They include the rate of inflation, rising costs of rental housing and rising food costs.
“It’s all applying pressure to people who are not able to increase their incomes proportionally," he said.
The community has continued to support the food bank, and the organization will be able to supply the community’s needs throughout the festive season, Bubb said.
He added that donations of cash or food are appreciated.
The food bank is now operating out of the Summerland Alliance Church, 14820 Victoria Rd. N. It is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The telephone number is 778-516-0015.
