The four Rotary Clubs of 91原创 came together in partnership with Walmart in 91原创 on Saturday, Dec. 16, to collect donations for one of the local food banks.
Rotary Club of 91原创 Central has been involved in the community for years, but this was another way it could give back, said former president and 40-year member Tim Lounsbury.
鈥淚 really enjoy these [events], and meeting new people. That鈥檚 a part of it, too,鈥� he said.
Food banks are seeing a growing demand for their services, which has changed through the years, said Jim Calamunce, executive director of the 91原创 Food Bank on 203rd Street.
鈥淲e used to always give them two to three days worth of food, but now they鈥檙e counting on us for a week鈥檚 [supply],鈥� he explained.
Calamunce said his food bank serves people from a variety of backgrounds, including seniors, but has seen an increase in immigrant families.
鈥淲e have families from Canada, Nigeria, Costa Rica, Iran, Iraq, India 鈥� there鈥檚 probably people from 15 or 20 different countries coming to us 鈥� because they鈥檙e finding things are just too costly,鈥� he shared.
He also noted that some families that have recently moved to B.C. are only here for a couple days before seeking the help of the food bank due to the costs.
Right now, the food bank needs pasta, cereal, canned soups, fruits, and vegetables for its families.
Jared Evans, assistant manager at Walmart 91原创, said it鈥檚 important to support the local organizations that look after people in the community.
鈥淭oo many Canadian families lack access to affordable, safe, and nutritious food鈥� We hope today鈥檚 drive will raise awareness and encourage Canadians to take action and donate generously to strengthen our local community,鈥� he said.
People can also drop off donations to the 91原创 Food Bank at 5768 203rd St. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. People can reach the food bank at 604-533-0671.
Sources 91原创 Food Bank, 5492 Production Blvd., is also accepting donations on site Mondays to Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m. to noon. For questions, people can call 604-532-5290.
READ ALSO: Sources 91原创 Food Bank seeing alarming increase in need
IN OTHER NEWS: 91原创鈥檚 ReFeed Farm facing closure is asking for community鈥檚 help
