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The Lethbridge Food Bank is one of the announced recipients in the Food Bank Grant and Donation Matching Grant. (Photo: LNN)

Alberta supports food banks with $10 million in funding

Apr 11, 2023 | 1:06 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Government of Alberta has provided food banks and related food security organizations across the province with $10 million.

It is part of the province’s commitment made in November 2022 to allocate $20 million over two years to help put food on the tables of Albertans.

The three grant streams included the Food Bank Grant, Food Security Grant and Donation Matching Grant.

Jeremy Nixon, Minister for Seniors, Community and Social Services said, “After hearing from those representing food banks in Alberta, we knew our government needed to act.”

Nixon went on, “These grants are ensuring that food banks and other organizations big and small can carry out the incredible work they do. Our government is proud to be partnered with so many individuals dedicated to supporting those in need.”

In addition to the three grant streams, the government said it will provide $510,000 to Food Banks Alberta to strengthen the food bank network in the province.

According to the province, those funds will be used to provide training to food bank staff, develop an improved data system and enable bulk food purchases.

CEO of Food Banks Alberta Arianna Scott said, “Food Banks Alberta and organizations across the province are grateful for the support from Alberta’s government. We are encouraged by their actions to address food insecurity and the issues Albertans are facing today.”

Of the funding provided, more than $3.4 million has been used to match donations made to food security organizations, up to a maximum of $50,000.

All 113 organizations that applied for the Donation Matching Grant were provided with funding.

In Lethbridge, a few organizations have been approved to receive funding:

Food Bank Grants

  • Interfaith Food Bank Society of Lethbridge – $60,000
  • Lethbridge Food Bank Society – $40,000
  • Salvation Army Fort Macleod – $40,000

Food Security Grant

  • Students Union University of Lethbridge – $25,000

Donation Matching Grants

  • Interfaith Food Bank Society of Lethbridge – $50,000
  • Lethbridge Food Bank Society – $50,000

For a full list of Alberta Food Banks and Food Security Grant recipients, go to the Alberta Government website.

Read more at LethbridgeNewsNow.com