BANCROFT: A vital food donation program in Bancroft has been put on pause. It’s because the need has escalated beyond the group’s ability to help.
St. Paul’s United Church’s Outreach Committee was running a monthly program that gave out grocery store gift cards, of about $10 each, to those in need.
But volunteers stopped this month, as they worried that they wouldn’t be able to keep up with demand.
Volunteer Melanie Lord said the money needed to support the program had “skyrocketed” to $800 per month. Church members worried donations couldn’t match that need.
She said the program isn’t gone for good. But, volunteers need to take a break and plan a new way to support the community.
She asks that people who want to help call the church at 613-332-1900.
Food concerns are not new to the region. A 2018 public health report, said about 10 per cent of Hastings-Prince Edward residents struggle with food insecurity.