By 2023, more than 72,000 people will receive help from different organizations to feed themselves each month, a 30% increase from last year. Will food bank stocks be sufficient in early 2024 at the end of distribution of Christmas baskets?
Martin Munger, director general of Quebec's food banks, declares that “stocks are running dry.” Currently, because “donations are not enough,” the organizations are more “proactive” in seeking other food donations and purchasing food.
Mr. Munger reminds food banks of the importance of the holiday season. “We're trying to distribute thousands and thousands of Christmas baskets so that people living with food insecurity can have a good Christmas,” she says.
This year, the distribution was a “success” and donors were “generous” ahead of the holiday season. However, it does request public participation after the holiday season because “the rest of the year is important.”
Last November's announcement of an additional $10M in grants from the government to food banks will provide a “good boost” until the spring. While government food aid is a bonus, Mr. Munger reiterates.
Mr. For Munger, “as long as there is inflation, the need for food banks will continue to increase.” Prices are still rising and the economic downturn adds an additional challenge.
“It is not uncommon for one in ten Quebecers to be forced to use food banks to get food. People have to feed themselves,” concludes the general director.
