Atlantic Superstore launches annual holiday food drive

More than 25,600 Nova Scotians rely on help from food banks each month

NEW GLASGOW, N.S. — It’s the time of year everyone is thinking about food.

While most are doing their holiday baking, though — preparing for holiday entertaining and a turkey feast — others worry about how to keep the kitchen cupboards and dinner plates filled when there are so many other expenses to think about.

Atlantic Superstore has launched the Holiday Food Drive at stores throughout Nova Scotia. Through Dec. 24, stores will be collecting nonperishable food items as well as cash donations to help community members in need across the province.

Terry Daley, registered dietitian at the New Glasgow Atlantic Superstore, says most needed items are the same ones consumers fill their carts with each week.

“Think about the healthy pantry staples that you stock up each week on to feed your own family — whole-grain cereals, hearty soups, canned fish such as tuna and salmon, pasta and pasta sauces, canned vegetables and fruits. Baby foods are also much needed,” said Daley. “I would like to encourage you to pick up an extra item or two during your next shop, then simply place the food items you are donating in the special food drive bins in-store.”

Shoppers can also make a monetary donation at the checkout.

In New Glasgow, the local Atlantic Superstore is supporting the Pictou West Food Bank and the Pictou County (East) Food Bank. One hundred per cent of food and cash donations made locally will stay in the community.

Food Banks Canada’s latest Hunger Count Report shows more than half of Nova Scotia’s food banks reported increased use between 2018 and 2019. Children make up almost three in 10 of those using the services of food banks.

Last year, during the Holiday Food Drive, Nova Scotians donated $170,000 and thousands of pounds of non-perishable food to local food banks across the province.