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DEAR EDITOR:

Our community is not immune to what is happening in the world around us. We cannot shield ourselves from what is happening everywhere in the world.

First COVID 19, then COVID 19 again. Supply chain disruption and now the war in Ukraine. All of this is creating inflation rates that we have not seen since the 1980s and 1990s. Some would ask, “What does that mean to us?”

Let us tell you that the Salvation Army is seeing a much higher demand at our food bank for monthly hampers and daily grab bags. We are easily experiencing a 30-35% increase in demand. You see the cost of goods are going up which is driving grocery prices higher and higher.

People on fixed incomes have no choice but to pay the higher prices for rents and services leaving less money for food. They are turning to us. We are blessed that we have been able to help everyone so far, but we cannot keep up with this increased demand for long. We need your help.

Food donations such as peanut butter, single-serve foods, cereals, crackers, oatmeal, Ichiban, cookies, toiletries, pasta, Kraft Dinner, Stove Top, tea, Jell-O, any glutenfree items... but we are not picky. Anything will help.

If you were to choose a financial donation, we can work with our local stores to try to stretch your donation. They have been very cooperative and have tried to help even though they are also dealing with supply issues. You can send your donation to: 2469 South Main Street, Penticton, B.C., V2A 5J1.

Drop in or donate over the phone. We have been blessed to be serving in this community for more than 100 years. Help us to continue helping everyone we can. The person we may be helping could be your neighbour.

Please help us in “Giving Hope Today.” Major Paul Trickett Alan Madsen Penticton