It’s the busiest time of year for The Table Food Bank, but the not-for-profit is managing to stay afloat.
That from The Table’s Founder Heather Cassie, who says despite high food prices and more people using their services, donors and recent food drives have kept their shelves restocked ahead of the holidays.
“We have committed to ensuring that our shelves will remain full to meet the need,” says Cassie. “So we have been putting those items out and they have been leaving the shelves just as quickly. We’ve been very blessed with donations, and we are hopeful that will continue so that we can meet the need together.”
According to Cassie, that extends to their Christmas food program, which thanks to donors is well-stocked this year. She says anyone can stop by this Friday or Saturday to pick up a turkey or ham, with all the usual fixings to make a proper Christmas dinner. “No one needs to sign up for this, we will ensure there is enough for everybody,” she says, but adds turkey and ham donations are always welcome.
Regular food bank services are available Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, where once a week guests can pick up non-perishables and fresh produce, as well as a light lunch. For anyone hesitant about using those services for the first time, Cassie says there’s nothing to worry about. “Anyone can come, and there’s no shame in it,” says Cassie. “You don’t need to prove need, just stop by and sign up, and we’re happy to help.”
For anyone wanting to help keep these programs running, Cassie says you can visit The Table’s website(https://www.thetablefoundation.ca/) to donate or volunteer. Direct food donations can be made at 9 Hanes St. in Huntsville, or in specially-labelled bins at various grocery stores in town.
“Like other food banks, we have certainly been far busier than we’ve been in the past. We are seeing new guests every day we’re open and are doing our best to keep up with the need,” says Cassie. “We do give a lot of food to kids and families who are in need all through the year, so Christmas is no different. But we have seen such an increase in the number of guests, and we need continued support from our community in order to meet it.”
