Melfort Food Bank in need of cash donations as usage spikes

“We have quite a bit of food because we have food rescue programs,” Zuck explained. “We have community groups collect for us, the churches bring us donations, so we have quite a bit of food.”

Zuck cites the growing need for food bank services as another major reason why cash is in short supply at the moment.

“In August alone, we had 21 families register with the food bank, so that’s over 100 people,” she said.

August may have been a larger contingent of newcomers than normal, but Zuck said they’ve been seeing five to 10 families per month come through the door.

“We’re serving probably about 800 to 900 people a month – maybe a little more some months.”

Zuck estimates that the number of people who use the food bank has probably doubled since the pandemic. She said there were about 500 to 700 clients a year ago.

“It’s jumped up quite a bit.”

The cost-of-living increase of the past couple of years seems to be a major reason for the spike in food bank usage. Zuck said many of the people using the services have multiple jobs but by the time they pay rent and bills, there’s little left for food. That increase in the cost of living could also be playing a factor in the organization receiving fewer cash donations of late.

“I know it’s hard for people to donate, and we do understand that too, but every little bit helps,” Zuck said.

The cost to keep the doors open has also increased for the food bank. Zuck said the power bill has increased, and they’re paying $500 to $700 per month just on power alone, with the various coolers, fridges, and freezers needed to operate.

“All of the bills have jumped up quite a bit, the price of food when we do have to buy anything has jumped up.”

Zuck said they normally purchase eggs and milk, and sometimes canned pork and beans, canned fish, and canned meat.

Food items for the food bank that aren’t always at the top of mind that they could use include spaghetti sauce and other sauces, and spices, including salt and pepper.

“Ordinary stuff you use all the time that you don’t think that somebody might not have,” explained Zuck.

She said spices put out front are usually gone right away.

The easiest way to donate money to the food bank is through e-transfer to melfortfoodbank@sasktel.net. You can also donate by cheque in person or through the mail at Box 3688, Melfort, SK., S0E 1A0. Zuck said anyone who needs a tax receipt should ask for one in their e-transfer.

Corporate donations are also welcome.

Zuck thanked those who have donated in the past and said Melfort is a great place for people’s generosity.

“I think that we’re an essential service in Melfort. We’re needed here.”

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com

by Cam Lee

Melfort Food Bank in need of cash donations as usage spikes

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