Food bank to receive food grocers can no longer sell

Program connects Central Okanagan Salvation Army with food exchange network

The Central Okanagan Salvation Army has partnered with a food exchange network to collect food from local grocery stores in support of low-income people in the community.

The program, in partnership with Food Mesh, will provide the Salvation Army with access to food that is still safe to consume but can no longer be displayed in store.

The meat, frozen food, produce, canned and dry goods will be transported from local grocers to the Salvation Army food bank and will be distributed to people in need.

“This concept has been on the table for years, and we’re thrilled that Food Mesh and local grocers have come alongside us to make it happen,” said Sonia Withers, community ministries co-ordinator with the Salvation Army.

Pilot projects run in other communities over the past year have been a huge success, said Withers.

“We provide support to 100 to 150 families every week, and we’re thrilled at the prospect of being able to help even more.”

For the program to be a success, the Salvation Army needs a minimum of four volunteers, Monday to Saturday, for tasks such as kitchen gleaning, sorting and recycling, distribution, and drivers for pickup and delivery of the donations. These roles require a three-hour commitment.

Anyone wanting to get involved is asked to come to an information session 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 16, at the Community Life Centre, 200 Rutland Rd. S.

To sign up for the information night, call 250-860-2329 ext. 333 or email volunteer@kelsa.ca.

We provide support to 100 to 150 families every week, and we’re thrilled at the prospect of being able to help even more. Sonia Withers