Comox Valley Food Bank Home Delivery Program
When the Comox Valley Food Bank (CVFB) contacted us last year to tell us about their home delivery program, we knew we had to be a part of it. We have been working with them for almost 10 years now, but this was a special program to get food directly to people that could not get to the food bank.
In seeking innovative, long-term solutions to hunger and food insecurity, the CVFB runs a Home Delivery Program for clients with mobility/transportation/social issues. “The focus is to become as barrier free as possible,” says Justin Lafortune, Deputy Executive Director of the CVFB. “Home delivery is primarily meant for persons experiencing mobility challenges (transportation emergencies also qualify), challenges or disorders that might prohibit them from visiting areas with large crowds, persons who might not cope well with anxiety or who might have other reasons for not being able to visit in person.”
B.C has the Highest Seniors’ Poverty Rate in Canada
This program is especially critical in BC as according to a report published by Sparc BC and United Way Lower Mainland British Columbia has the highest seniors’ (65+ years old) poverty rate of any province or territory.
How the Home Delivery Program Works
Currently, about 80 non-perishable hampers are delivered every two weeks throughout the Comox Valley. The emphasis is to ensure home delivery clients receive the essentials – about 80% of the non-perishable items are purchased by the food bank. Clients will also receive an offering of meat, eggs, yogurt, cheese, margarine, milk or alternative and cereal through their delivery.
Tree Island Yogurt supports local food programs year-round including Farm Folk City Folk, food banks and food security programs at schools in our community. “Our mission is to bring joy to the everyday, build food security and support land stewardship. We do this by working with local farmers, connecting with retailers and consumers, but also supporting programs in our community” – Merissa Myles, Co-Founder, Tree Island Yogurt
How to Help Your Local Food Bank
- Donate! Online or in-person during business hours. Fresh and non-perishable food items and monetary donations are all appreciated. For more details, click here.
- Volunteer! For more information, click here.
- Grow a Row! Consider the CVFB when you are planting or harvesting your garden. You can help increase access to fresh and healthy foods by donating fresh produce. You can find more information here.