Loaves and Fishes says the need is even higher this year, and with an increased number of people using food banks, they’re looking for everyone to help with their Stuff the Truck campaign.
The Christmas campaign kicked off in Nanaimo early this morning (Dec. 19), which saw a steady flow of people dropping by to give any amount they can to help provide those who are less fortunate with a great Christmas.
Director of development Abby Sawchuk says the need in Nanaimo, and across Vancouver Island has escalated to record numbers.
“The need is off the charts,” she says. “The only way we’re going to be able to keep up and make sure every family gets a Merry Christmas this time of year is if donors come out to make sure there’s enough to go around.
“We’re here, and we want people to know they can make a difference.”
In addition to the Stuff the Truck event, Sawchuk says they have several other ways people can access food because the need for help is not just isolated to the festive season.
“The generosity of the community has enabled us to keep our other food markets open, as a Christmas food hamper program,” she says. “People get a reliable supply of groceries at the same time they’re also getting a hamper.”
Laurie Godfrey was one of the donors who stopped by the event, and she says supporting events, and organizations like Loaves and Fishes shouldn’t just be a one-day campaign.
“I think people should do this all the time,” she says. “I have family members who were on the streets and people helped them.
“I think everybody deserves food and should be able to sustain themselves.”
Loaves and Fishes supplies more than 15,000 people in 44 communities, including 15 Indigenous communities, with over $9 million worth of food across the island free of charge.
