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Food bank looking for long-term funding commitment from town

October 6, 2022   ·   0 Comments

By Sam Odrowski

The Orangeville Food Bank is hoping to secure a long-term financial commitment from council, as an increasing number of people are seeking out support from the not-for-profit organization.

Heather Hayes, executive director of the local food bank, delivered a speech to council last Monday (Sept. 26) during its final meeting before the Oct. 24 election). She requested that the Orangeville Food Bank be put in the town’s budget for an annual commitment, noting it’s an essential service for residents that is primarily funded through donors.

“Mom reminded me many times, you don’t value what you don’t pay for,” said Hayes. “We’ve been a dependable source of support for those in need for 30 years. We are creative in our programming, in getting food out to seniors through our markets, creating meals in house with rescued foods, supporting food programs across the county and building partnerships with numerous community agencies.”

Hayes added, “When we are needed, we step up, but we need dedicated funding to ensure that we can keep doing what we do best, and that’s feed people.”

Comparing August 2021 to August 2022, the food bank has seen a 40 per cent increase in those needing support, up from 627 to 864. Hayes said the increase in need is anticipated to continue over the winter months, as people struggle to manage school expenses, utility costs and the holidays, while inflation puts additional pressure on people’s bank accounts.

“When I set my food budget this year, we were anticipating an increase. Absolutely we knew it was coming, but not 40 per cent. That is the reality going forward for us,” she explained.

Hayes said the food bank can’t take away the amount of milk, meat, fruits or vegetables it gives to people, as these are the very items that are most cost prohibitive at grocery stores, and hardest for families to access.

She noted in the local food bank’s new strategic plan, it envisions a well-nourished community, not just a community without hunger.

“I looked up the definition of nourish and it is: provide with the food or other substances necessary for growth, health and good condition,” she said. “We can ensure that everyone in our community who is hungry is fed. We have enough rice, oatmeal and beans to make that happen. It would cost pennies in comparison to our current budget, but it would not contribute to growth, health or good condition.”

In response to Hayes request, Mayor Sandy Brown said whoever gets elected to council on Oct. 24 will head into budget deliberations shortly thereafter, and consider the addition of the Orangeville Food Bank to the town’s budget at that time.

“Expanding our community grant program is an option that the future Council could consider,” he said. “I think we all love what you’re doing and we’re all concerned about those who are using your facility, so I’m sure you’re going to get cooperation going forward from the new council. I’m quite certain of it.”

Coun. Todd Taylor said he personally would need to see more details to further understand the issues facing the food bank, but added that he can’t imagine why the town wouldn’t provide support.

The new 2022-2026 term of Orangeville council will hold its first meeting Nov. 10, and budget deliberations begin on Dec. 5.

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