By Brenda LeClair
Chatham Outreach for Hunger
After a year of a lot of economic uncertainty, more people in our community are going to the Chatham Outreach for Hunger for help. In Ontario, the number of people using food banks has gone up a lot –100.6 per cent more than in 2019.
Because families want to make their money go as far as possible, and because so many people need help, it’s really important for food banks to have plenty of food. This is even more vital during the holidays when families have to decide between buying food or getting gifts.
Your contribution to Chatham’s food banks will really help out. If you want to help, you can go to the food bank and make a donation.
We’re also thankful for Chatham Superstore, who are doing their Holiday Food Drive again to help us during the holiday season.
Here are the details for the Food Drive:
- Time: From now until to Dec. 24
- Place: Chatham Superstore
You can help by giving food or money at the store. Money donations help us keep everything going and fill the shelves when we don’t have enough food.
Here are the types of food we need:
Grains: rice, pasta, oats, granola bars
Proteins: canned fish, beans, peanut butter
Fruits and vegetables: canned fruits and vegetables
Pantry staples: soup, pasta, vegetable oil
Household and hygiene: toilet paper, cleaning products, toothpaste, deodorant, sanitary products
When you’re shopping for groceries, think about sharing the gift of food. Grab a few extra things and put them in the donation bins near the store entrance. You can also give money at the cash register of your local Chatham Superstore. Even a small act of kindness can make a big difference for those in need.
- Brenda LeClair is the executive director of Outreach for Hunger.
