The South Cariboo Food Security Committee (SCFSC) is asking the community to help with emergency food during this summer.
With an ever-increasing need for food and less available during the summer, Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre (CFEC) executive director Lisa De Paoli, who co-chairs the committee, says local food security shelfs are running low.
The following staples would be greatly appreciated at the CFEC, Loaves & Fishes Outreach and 100 Mile & District Women's Centre for distribution to hungry families, she explains.
Pasta, macaroni and cheese, canned soup, canned beans, peanut butter (small jars), oatmeal and rice are now in demand, and any other foods community members can provide will be helpful.
We also greatly appreciate fresh food including eggs, bread, vegetables and fruit De Paoli says, adding, we will make sure that all donations are used by those in need.
Her fellow SCFSC co-chair, Rita Giesbrecht, says the newly established Community Place Garden at First Street and Birch Avenue in 100 Mile House is now harvesting for individuals and families in need.
The committee members could really use some help with garden watering, weeding and harvesting, Giesbrecht says, adding it would also be greatly appreciated.
"To learn your way around the garden, come down there on Wednesdays and Fridays beginning at 10 a.m. and speak to one of the co-ordinating gardeners.
"That produce is there for the benefit of the vulnerable population, and those who are hungry."
During the summer, the 100 Mile & District Food Bank reverts to an emergency food hamper process, with hampers available for those in dire need by calling ahead to 250-395-3923.
As in past years, Food Bank manager Bob Hicks says they are distributing reserved-only emergency hampers on the first and third Tuesday of each month at the Food Bank, which does not have regular hours in the summertime.
Just the Basics
Early Years Centre co-ordinator Erica Henderson says the CFEC has an emergency infant supply cupboard that provides families with the essentials for their infants on a no-questions-asked, no-forms-to-fill-out basis.
During the past few months, she notes the cupboard being used on a daily basis, which has depleted supplies.
"I am putting a call out for donations to replenish the cupboard and ensure all babies receive the basics for healthy growth and development."
Items needed
• Formula
• Baby food
• Baby wipes
• Diapers (size 2, 4, 5 and 6)
• Diaper cream
Just the Basics is a South Cariboo Success By 6 campaign aimed at ensuring all babies receive the basics for healthy growth and development.
