The Interfaith Food Bank is making an urgent plea for donations. (Photo: Interfaith Food Bank)

By David Opinko

Interfaith Food Bank in ‘urgent need’ of donations

Sep 11, 2024 | 11:08 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – One of the food banks in Lethbridge says their supplies are dwindling and items are leaving their facility as fast as they are coming in.

Interfaith Food Bank Executive Director Danielle McIntyre is pleading with the public to donate.

“At this time of year, we’re normally overflowing with produce from local producers and people growing in their gardens,” says McIntyre. “At this time this year, we’re just not seeing that produce coming in as plentifully as we usually do, and on top of that, we have so many more mouths to feed.”

She explains that the rising cost of living, and in particular, groceries, has lead to more people needing to use the food bank. It also means that fewer residents can afford to give back.

There is also an agricultural issue where many local farmers and gardeners decided to plant fewer crops this year due to expected droughts.

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McIntyre tells LNN that the food bank has almost completely run out of fresh foods.

“We are in dire need of fresh fruits and vegetables, bread, and dairy items, as well as meat. If people have the opportunity to glean from their gardens before they’re done for the season, we would love that support, or for people to grab a few extra fresh things when they’re out at the grocery store,” says McIntyre.

Non-perishable food items are always in high demand, such as cereals, pasta, pasta sauce, and canned soups, meats and vegetables.

Residents can also choose to make financial contributions on the Interfaith Food Bank or Lethbridge Food Bank websites, which allows them to purchase whatever is needed at the time.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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