Food bank serving more people despite rising costs

Many are going to be preparing for a Thanksgiving feast this weekend with turkey, potatoes, stuffing and, of course, pie.

But not everyone is in a position to do that, especially with sky-high inflation and rising costs at the grocery store putting pressure on their wallets. Many are turning to the Saskatoon Food Bank in order to get the things they need, not just for a Thanksgiving dinner but everyday essentials as well.

Deborah Hamp, director of operations and engagement at the food bank, said more and more people need their support.

“We’re currently serving about 20,000 people every month. And so the rising costs, inflation, the price of gas, everything is hitting people hard,” Hamp said.

It’s unusual to see this many people come to the food bank each month, Hamp said. At the start of 2022, that number was just 15,000.

“It’s a significant increase that we’re seeing,” she added.

Hamp said people don’t always say why they’re visiting the food bank, but staff members have built relationships with some clients and they’ve all expressed how expensive food has become.

The food bank doesn’t stock all of the Thanksgiving essentials, but does accept monetary donations so staff can build specific hampers during the holidays and provide them to larger families.

But the rising costs are affecting everyone, and Hamp said some who have donated to the food bank in the past may not be able to do so this year.

“We respect the fact that lots of people are struggling with inflation,” Hamp said. “It’s still a battle to put food on the table or gas in the car.”

That’s why the food bank also has plenty of spaces for people to donate their time and volunteer, Hamp said.

People can donate any time, Hamp noted, and some of the items they’re looking for right now are infant formula, soup, pasta and cereal. Monetary or food donations can be dropped off at 202 Ave. C South or arranged online.