The West Coast’s Food Bank on the Edge is thriving thanks to beneficial partnerships yielding fresh produce.
“I am busting with pride that I live in such a supportive and giving community,” the food bank’s executive director Cris Martin told the Westerly News.
She said the Ucluelet Co-op donated over 5,000 kilograms of fresh food in 2016 and that collaboration has rolled firmly into 2017.
“We are fortunate to receive donations from the Ucluelet Co-op that include outgoing fresh produce and dairy products two days a week and bread almost every day,” Martin said.
Along with the Co-op’s offerings, Martin was delighted to see Ucluelet’s Zoe’s Bakery and Cafe commit to fresh monthly contributions.
“The upshot of the fresh food donations is that, instead of opening a bunch of cans and boxes, clients can bring their families together to prepare a meal from scratch,” Martin said.
“We all know that when families join together to prepare a meal the bond created is very valuable. It’s quality family time. The kids can get involved and then the whole family can enjoy a healthy meal. The opportunity to offer up more ‘real’ food is very gratifying to us.”
She added she’s also been excited to see an increase in non-food related items coming in.
“We routinely receive several donations a week of clothing, household items, personal care items and even some appliances and furniture,” she said.
“The donations from businesses and private individuals enable us to stock and maintain our ‘free store’ at the Food Bank on the Edge.”
The items coming in are organized and sorted by volunteers who, Martin said, work hard to
ensure clients find what they need.
“We have a great team of volunteers who are dedicated to creating a positive experience for each client we serve,” she said.
Anyone interested in helping the food bank help locals in need is encouraged to contact the food bank at 250-726-6909 or edgefood@island.net.