Saskatoon Food Bank drive donations up, usage increases

The Saskatoon Food Bank’s annual city-wide food drive brought in 79,000lbs of groceries, but as usage continues to grow, organizers hope people will continue to work towards permanent poverty solutions.
 
Around 400 volunteers scoured the city for bags left on front steps Saturday.
 
Food bank operations and engagement director Deborah Hamp said they were overwhelmed by the generosity of the city, including a 10,000lbs donation of potatoes.
 
“Last year we raised 66,000lbs, so things are looking up, really good support and we couldn’t be happier with the results,” Hamp said Tuesday.
 
Last year, donations were down 13,000lbs from 2014, but Hamp is glad to see the rebound this year.
 
The food will help the bank through the summer months. It’s an important time because many students don’t have access to school food programs, Hamp said.
 
However she said food bank usage has steadily risen over the last three years. This year, they have seen 20,000 people per month, compared to 15,000 this time last year and 12,000 in 2014. Hamp attributes the rise, in part, to inflation and the decreased value of the minimum wage compared to the cost of living.
 
In addition to donations, Hamp said they are also focusing on systems changes and root caused of poverty.
 
“What we really need is our community to continue to be aware, engaged and helping us fight the good fight,” she said. “Helping us engage at all levels to really make a difference in the lives of people who are living in poverty.”
 
Donations that were not picked up can be dropped off at local grocery stores or at the Saskatoon Food Bank at 202 Avenue C South between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Friday.