We’re launching this community board during the season of giving thanks and we can think of no better first feature than our very first Impact Partner, Saanich Peninsula Lions Foodbank. The Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank has been supporting the community since 1984 primarily by providing food hampers. Run by a dedicated team of volunteers, staff, and Board of Directors, they've helped thousands of people, staying committed to their mission of "helping those in need through those who care."
Our Founder and CEO Meghan Andrade caught up with their Operations Manager Tyson Elder by email to learn more about their efforts to nourish our community.
What food items are most needed during the fall and winter months?
During the fall and winter months we find we are in need of more heartier and staple items. Things like pastas, rice, helpers (things to stretch a meal like hamburger helpers, sidekicks, flavored pre-made rices), peanut butter, tea, jam, oatmeal both instant and oats, cake and muffin mixes and school snacks are needed all year round.
Are there specific volunteer opportunities during the holiday season or colder months where extra help is needed?
We are blessed with a very giving community with their time. We are always on the hunt for a few more volunteers but we ask that their commitment is beyond the season. It takes time to train a volunteer and if they only plan on helping during the holidays it’s hard to have the consistency the people who rely on our food bank deserve and expect.
How can we help spread awareness about your food bank’s seasonal needs in our community?
So many people in our community don’t know we exist and are here to help. Talking to friends and neighbors about us is always the first step in spreading awareness. We help over 500 households a month - that’s between 1500-1800 individuals struggling with food insecurity many are seniors and children.
Do you offer any special programs or drives during the fall and winter, and how can the community get involved?
During the winter we offer a special Christmas Hamper for those who register for it at the food bank we pair up with other groups to provide gifts and toys to children 17 and under.
There are several large food drives throughout the community during the winter. Including the annual Fireman Food Drive and several school food drives.
Aside from food donations, what other resources (e.g., warm clothing, hygiene products) are most helpful to the people you serve during colder months?
Due to space limitations we do not offer any clothing programs at our food bank but we will gladly hand out socks, toques and gloves. We are always in need of hygiene products like shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, razors, feminine hygiene products and cleaning products like laundry soap and dish soap.
To learn more Saanich Peninsula Lions Foodbankand to support their work, head to their website.