Nourish Food Bank collected over 6k pounds of food to help people experiencing food insecurity as part of its Thanksgiving Food Drive. While an impressive amount of food donated, Nourish said in a release they've collected over 7k pounds of food in previous years
“This is our major food drive, and while 6,201 pounds is substantial, donations are down, and with the increase in need, this supply won’t last long,” said Sandra Davis, Community Food Coordinator Assistant at Nourish Food Bank Quesnel in the release. “The number of households we serve has risen significantly—from 250 to over 700 over the past year—and we expect further growth as the holiday season approaches. Nearly half of those we assist are children.”
Elaine Laberge, Executive Director of the Canadian Mental Health Association of Northern BC, emphasized the importance of the NOURISH program to the community: “Our mission at CMHA is to support mental wellness in our communities, and we understand that access to nutritious food is a fundamental part of that journey. With NOURISH, we’re not just handing out food. We’re investing in the overall well-being of our clients, giving them the tools and support to live healthier lives.”
Nourish is now looking ahead to the winter holidays and is asking for more donations and support from the community. Donation bins will be placed throughout the city to give people an opportunity to drop off things like canned goods for the food bank. Monetary donations are also accepted and can be made online at www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/82138.
Nourish said by supporting the Thanksgiving Food Drive the community has made a difference to over 700 households in Quesnel. They added that the need continues and by donating people can help ensure nobody in the city goes without their needs this holiday season.
"Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient community," the release said.
