While the annual Coast Wide Food Bank Drive successfully launched on May 10, with a generous donation of $5,000 from long-time supporters Unifor 1119, ongoing contributions have slowed to a trickle, says realtor Kenan MacKenzie, who has long been involved with the campaign.
“The demand is huge and the donations are down, I know this is a problem all over,” says MacKenzie. “So, we're hoping that maybe we can encourage people, if they haven't made a donation, to make a donation to help their neighbour.”
The campaign funds are split among the Coast’s four food banks – St. Barts Food Bank (Gibsons), the Salvation Army Harvest of Hope (Gibsons), the Sunshine Coast Food Bank (Sechelt) and the Pender Harbour Food Bank – and support services through the year.
He notes in peak times, the drive raised as much as $85,000 one year and $113,000 in another. So far this year, the drive has raised $19,700, including the $5,000 from Unifor.
MacKenzie notes other generous supporters to date include, Steve Strober, Cedar’s Inn, Kenmac Parts, Mason Bluff Farms, Jon McRae, Sarah MacKenzie, Patra’s Pizza and at least one anonymous donor.
While food donations are always appreciated, cash allows food banks to maximize their resources by purchasing in bulk at lower costs than individual donors. So, the “virtual” component of the drive continues and people are encouraged to donate via e-transfer to [email protected] or online at coastwidefoodbankdrive.ca. Credit cards are also accepted.
