Since becoming the executive director of the St. Albert Food Bank nine years ago I have seen a growing awareness for the work we do here and more importantly an understanding that bad things can and do happen to good people.
Fort McMurray is the perfect example of this. No one in that community could have predicted their lives would be so altered by such an unimaginable disaster. We all saw the shocking pictures of people escaping the flames and many people felt compelled to take action.
Through the generosity of donors we were able to assist families who fled the fires. The families were very grateful for the outpouring of support they received in St. Albert and some have chosen to make this city their new home.
There was a tremendous amount of activity that took place behind the scenes that allowed for an amazing support system for the evacuees and their families.
This is just one example where the St. Albert Community Village and Food Bank has helped, but there are other instances where we help to fill a desperate need. Here is a snapshot of how we help the community we serve.
By the numbers:
• 220 families are helped each month
• 40,000 lbs. of food is distributed each month
• 47 per cent of people assisted are children
• 2,011 hampers prepared and distributed in 2015 (up from 1,549 in 2014)
• 166 new families have signed on for assistance since January
• Five – the number of months we can manage if no other food is collected
Who you are helping with your donation:
• A young man from a dysfunctional family who has worked very hard to save money and has managed until now. He has applied for benefits that will allow him to finish his schooling and just needs a little help to reach his goals.
• A young mom with two children who moved here to get away from her abuser and is starting over.
• A woman fighting depression and anxiety due to years of abuse who has made remarkable progress.
• Significant physical and mental health issues have kept this woman out of the work force up until now. She has fought hard to overcome her problems and has recently been accepted into an apprenticeship program.
• The parents who both have full time jobs but not enough income to make it to the end of the month.
• The homeless individuals who have successfully conquered their addictions and have found sustainable housing, but need continued support as they transition from the streets.
• Those individuals who are on fixed incomes and have no opportunity to increase their incomes.
These are just a few of the many families coming through our doors who are helped by our staff, our volunteers and by your generosity. Many are new families who are facing financial insecurities for the first time this year. Some are returning for support as they continue on the path to wellness and increased self-sufficiency.
The St Albert Community Village and Food Bank continues to assist families such as these, as well as some of the Fort McMurray families who are still facing challenges. We thank the citizens of St. Albert along with the city staff for their continued support. It is a privilege to be a part of this city.
Suzan Kreczy is the director of the St. Albert Food Bank.
