(Facebook/Melfort Food Bank Inc.)

By Angie Rolheiser

Holiday Hampers

Melfort Food Bank asking community for donations for food and holiday hampers

Nov 24, 2020 | 10:38 AM

The number of families and individuals accessing the Melfort Food Bank is increasing.

The increase is largely due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Secretary Ellen Zuck said this year they have created a 12 days of Christmas program as a guideline to what they need for donations for their holiday hampers.

“We are starting to see more people now that it [COVID-19] is spreading in our communities. We are seeing more people with needs,” Zuck said. “People are losing jobs again and people closing up again and I think it is probably going to get a bit worse.”

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Now with Christmas on the way those who were already impacted by the pandemic are now looking to the food bank for support, Zuck said.

The regular distribution of food hampers continues as well so any extra giving at this time is more than welcome.

“We will take all of our regular donations of items as well as cash,” Zuck said. “The community of Melfort has been wonderful and very supportive of the food bank and we are so appreciative.”

The food bank is open for donations every Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The 12 days of Christmas items should be in by Dec. 7.

“If you have the items gathered but can’t get it to us by that date, don’t leave it at home, call us and we will still take it,” Zuck said.

Volunteers and board members are still needed as some are a bit hesitant to leave their homes as COVID-19 numbers rise.

“When people are wearing masks and gloves, I think it is a little more intimidating for people to come and volunteer,” Zuck said.

Volunteers would help out on food hamper distribution days on Thursdays and for hamper building and stocking shelves on Wednesdays.

Those wanting to register for food and/or holiday hampers as well as Interested volunteers can call the Food Bank at 306-752-4448. The holiday hampers will go out after Dec. 17.

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angie.rolheiser@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @Angie_Rolheiser