Cor Van Raay (right) donates $100,000 to the Interfaith Food Bank. (Supplied by Interfaith Food Bank)

By David Opinko

Cor Van Raay donates $100,000 to Interfaith Food Bank in Lethbridge

Mar 23, 2020 | 11:09 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A local philanthropist is donating a significant amount of money to a local food bank.

Although Cor Van Raay is currently self-isolating and taking health precautions right now, he believes that this was the best time to make a major donation.

“As I sat in my home and reflected on my past, I could not, in all [conscience], sit and listen about people in Lethbridge and community that have no homes, no jobs, and very little food. About 60 years ago, I was in the same situation.”

Danielle McIntyre, Executive Director of the Interfaith Food Bank, says local philanthropy as vital to supporting community service like theirs.

She notes that Van Raay has a long history of giving back.

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“Mr. Van Raay is a great example of someone who knows what it means to give back to the community. When public funds aren’t available, it’s up to us as citizens to create the world we’d like to live in. Providing for our most vulnerable community members is a priority, and we are so grateful for donors like Cor Van Raay who help to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”

The donation will help to ensure that their shelves are stocked and ready to help those in need of emergency food assistance.

During times of crisis, such as fires, floods, and public health emergencies, food banks are often called upon to support a much broader section of the community than they would normally serve.

The Interfaith Food Bank is partnering with the Lethbridge Food Bank and MyCityCare to distribute food to those in need and participates with a leadership group consisting of the Soup Kitchen, Meals on Wheels, School Districts, and the Salvation Army, among other groups.

“I hope and pray that this contribution will help at least a few people who are less fortunate,” says Van Raay. “We keep our Christmas lights on as a sign of hope. Maybe other people will join us!”