THUNDER BAY -- Not only is the number of local families enduring food insecurity on the rise but their need is becoming more profound.
St. Thomas Family Giving Centre coordinator Janis Barker said her organization is seeing an incerase in demand for food, clothing and even basic essentials. For many of the 300 families the Edward Street church is serving each month,the centre is their only support to survive.
"The need for donations this year is greater than ever," she explained at Sunday's Fill An Ambulance food drive outside of Metro's Arthur Street outlet.
"We have more clients who have less money to spend on groceries and the groceries are becoming more expensive."
St. Thomas volunteers offered shoppers a list of non-perishable food items to donate at the door and pre-made variety bags were also available.
The food will be contributed to the church's bi-weekly Friday morning hamper drives, which include free groceries, clothing, house wares, school supplies, children's toys and pet supplies.
"People have a hard time feeding themselves. Food is expensive and their money just doesn't stretch far enough to put enough food on the table," Barker said.
"Every little bit we can give them makes a difference in their lives and it helps keep people healthy."
