Addressing food insecurity - One client at a time...

Posted by Dan Kammerer 
on Jun 28, 2011
 

Medicine Hat & District Food Bank Executive Director Connie Matson joined our Meeting June 28 to tell us a little about what they accomplish on a regular basis.  The Food Bank has been in operation since 1992 and was started by the 5th Avenue United Church.  All individuals have an initial meeting with the food bank to assess their needs and also receive referrals to other support organizations in the community.

There has been a significant increase in usage at the food bank over the past several years

  • 2007 – 13,000 individuals access the food bank
  • 2009 – The number was 58,000
  • 2010 - Over 61,000 people had used the service.
  • 43% of individuals using the Food Banks are children.

 The Food Bank offers a number of services including:

  • Snack Attack – Emergency shelve of food in 28 local schools which can be access by student at the discretion of their teachers
  • Healthy Bundles – Provides food, milk, formula, diapers etc to pregnant and first year moms in crisis
  • Start-up hampers – Provided to individuals accessing services from other agencies such as the Women’s Shelter.
  • Grocery Box – 6 days supply of food to an individual in need
  • Lunch hamper – Provided to families in need with school age children
  • Birthday box - Includes party supplies for kids and Cake donated by the Co-op
  • Back to School kit – School necessities and bag
  • Healthy smiles – sponsored by local Dentist provides brush, floss and paste
  • Toys – In partnership with The Santa Claus fund toys are available to Children

Connie stressed the importance of the partnering the Food Banks does with many organizations in the community to meet individuals need.  

Meeting Notes:

  • Dan reminded everyone to please sign up for the Stampede Raffle in late July, 60 spots need to filled so please put you name down for at least 2 spots. 
  • Kambi announced there is a new optometrist in town and he will provide an information session on healthy eye sight for anyone that is interest in attending on July 5th 7pm at the Medicine Hat Library.
  • Glen thanked everyone who has already donated this year to The Rotary Foundation and reminded those that have not; they need to do so before June 30th to be included in this years figures.
  • Suggested amount is $100 per year to be recognized as a sustaining member. To donate go to http://www.trfcanada.org/trf_canada_donate.html
  • Motion made by Clare Lindsay and will be added to the next board meeting minutes
  • Gerry Carter won the draw but was unsuccessful in drawing the Ace of Spades. Now is the time to buy tickets as the pot is at over $400 and there are not many cards are left. 
  • Gord made final remarks thanking the Club and Board for support for his year as President, Gord also wished Jace well for next year.