Food bank ensuring donations go to people who really need help
West Island Assistance Fund getting strict with registration requirements
West Island Assistance Fund executive director Claudine Campeau is on the lookout for people trying to play the system.
The WIAF was established in 1966 and helps up to 700 families a year through its food bank, thrift shop, furniture service and Christmas-basket program.
When the volunteer in charge of registering families in need left in June, Campeau took over the job and in the process, did a deep dive into the files. She got quite the surprise.
“There were people on that list who make more money than I do,” she said.
As a result of her discovery, the registration protocol has changed.
To register for help, the applicant needs proof of address for the month the registration process is taking place, proof of revenue with the date included — be it a pay stub, employment-insurance stub or welfare stub — and a budget and list of all expenses for the last three months.
“Some people didn’t bother coming back when they heard about the new rules,” Campeau said. “But others did. One woman had her two children enrolled in private school. Another was on maternity leave and working for (a food-delivery service) making a lot of money. I find that the less they need help, the more arrogant they are.”
Campeau remembered one man who would come in and demand this and that. During a recent search on Facebook, she discovered photos of all the items he had received. Apparently, he’d handed them off to relatives.
Do the discoveries make Campeau cynical?
“No. We work hard to make sure the donations we receive go to the people who need the help, not the ones who say they need help,” she said.
Campeau said her two assistants are great at reading people and sniffing out those trying to take advantage of the situation.
Some people didn’t bother coming back when they heard about the new rules. But others did.
When it comes to serving refugees and asylum seekers, there are also rules in place. Campeau said refugees who have an official letter from the government with a medicare card number — or an actual medicare card — are welcome to register. As of Jan. 1, 2019, asylum seekers with a medicare number will be allowed to register.
November is the month the WIAF gears up to distribute Christmas baskets. A basket contains food goodies and, as of 1996, parents have been invited to attend a toy day which allows them to choose gifts for their children. Parents select one major gift; one colouring book with crayons; one book; one arts-and-crafts item; one stuffed animal and an assortment of tiny gifts. If individuals or companies are interested in lending a helping hand, they may contact the office and be matched with a family. The Christmas basket is assembled and delivered by the donor or, if the donor would rather remain anonymous, the basket will be delivered by a WIAF volunteer. Anyone can shop at the thrift shop. Items are cheap — think 50 cents for a T-shirt. Clients referred to the WIAF through a recognized entity such as the West Island Women’s Shelter or the Montreal Police are allowed to shop for free. The cap is $25 for an adult, but with items selling for such a low price, a lot can be purchased with $25. Clothing donations are welcome. The clothing must be “ready to wear” with no missing buttons, broken zippers or tears. WIAF also welcomes used toys in good condition and new toys suitable for children six years old and under. Volunteers are needed to staff the thrift shop. To volunteer, email info@fdoi.org. WIAF also takes used — not broken — furniture and will pick up donations every Tuesday and Thursday between Feb. 1 and the beginning of November. Campeau said monetary donations are always welcome. The mailing address is 9 Centre Commercial St., Roxboro, Quebec, H8Y 2N9. For information, call 514683-0456 or visit fdoi.org. kgreenaway@postmedia.com