Brantford Food Bank appeals to public after record-high use in September

The Brantford Food Bank is appealing to the public after it saw a record-high use of is program last month with nearly 3,000 people supported.

In a statement released Thursday, the food bank says it provided a three to five-day food supply for 2,991 people, making up 1,314 households in September.

This marks a 56 per cent increase in household registrations over the previous year, it says.

Executive Director Heather Vanner attributes the increase – that hasn’t been seen since Canada’s financial crisis in 2008 – to rising inflation, higher food prices and the struggle for affordable housing.

“We are in the perfect storm,” she says.

“Without the continued support of our community we cannot help those coming through our doors.”

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The Brantford Food Bank also operates the Community Food Share program that supports 17 other food and meal programs.

Vanner is encouraging people to make a financial donation to the food bank, especially ahead of Thanksgiving.

“Donors may be re-considering making food or monetary donations because their household budget is being stretched,” she says.

“We are asking our community to consider just how much harder this situation is on individuals and families who were already struggling or are just getting by.”

Donations to the Brantford Food Bank can be made in person or online on the organization’s website.

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