“The Times…They are a changing”

Back in 1997 a number of concerned members of the local Ministerial Association, together with other area residents, met to address what, at that time, was seen as a need to provide food to those who are less fortunate in the community.

The meeting consisted of residents from the Vauxhall, Hays and Enchant area. There were 22 people present representing all walks of life. At the gathering on June 16, 1997 the Vauxhall & Area Foodbank Society was formed. Among the directors elected at that meeting were Don Fisher and Nick Kuipers.

These two gentlemen were charter members and served on the board of the Food Bank until their passing many years later. We have been very thankful for their valuable support and work over the years. We appreciate the support of all others throughout the years who saw fit to work side by side to gather food, raise monies, distribute food, take care of the books and of the physical facility.

The Vauxhall & Area Food Bank has seen several homes over the years, including an area set aside in the Vauxhall Legion Hall, an area in a local BRID building, an interim home in a local community member’s garage and now in the old library building. Until last year, we have been very fortunate to have little in the way of utilities to pay and no rent for the facilities we have used.

As of late, however, we have seen fewer community members who wish to volunteer to sit on the board. With the changing times and the downturn in the economy there has been a substantial increase in need for the food bank. This is due to rising unemployment rates, etc. For 2016 there has been a 150 per cent increase from last year thus far.

So, as the Christmas season approaches, and throughout the other times of the year, let’s get involved and help the local food bank as much as we can.

ARLENE PARKINSON

DIRECTOR, VAUXHALL & AREA FOOD BANK

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