With a lot more people to feed and donations of non-perishable goods from the public down to almost nothing, a $20,000 cheque dropped off at the Sudbury Food Bank by the Union of Taxation Employees Local 00042 Sudbury was most welcome.
Sudbury Food Bank president Mellaney Dahl said due to layoffs caused by the pandemic, food bank usage has doubled and in some cases tripled at some of its member agencies.
“Here at the food bank, it has been very stressful, and very, very busy,” Dahl said. “We can use every dollar we can get.”
The funds donated to the food bank come from members’ union dues, said Tracy Marcotte, president of the Union of Taxation Employees Local 00042 Sudbury.
She said the national union donated to Food Banks Canada, and that inspired local unions across the country to donate to food banks in their area.
“It’s a worthy cause,” said Marcotte.
“We know that numbers have increased during the pandemic for the food bank, and it was a great way to show support. I know that they need the support.
“We’re thrilled that we’re able to give such an amount. Our membership has been really supportive in that as well. It’s a way of giving back to our community.”
The Sudbury Food Bank has set about to raise cash donations during the pandemic through its Cash for Cans campaign, and has brought in several large donations.
Dahl explains that through partnerships and bulk buying, the food bank can get a lot more for its money with cash donations. For example, the Taxation Employees’ $20,000 donation is equivalent to $100,000 in food.
She said it may still be possible for people to donate non-perishable food items to the food bank — Dahl actually dropped off a bin of food for a friend Wednesday — but advises people to phone first about following proper protocols during the pandemic.
“But cash goes a lot farther,” she said. “If you can do that, it’s wonderful.”
Learn more on the Sudbury Food Bank on its website, or phone 705-671-9663.