Although changes are coming, the need for donations and support remains steadfast at North Hastings Community Cupboard.
Executive Director Monica Piercey is helping with the transition for her replacement as she prepares to retire from her post at the local organization.
In the meantime, Piercey said food and other donations are still required, even in the warmer months.
The community cupboard were recipients recently of a $2,000 donation from Kijicho Manito Madaouskarini, via proceeds from the recent Indigenous Expo at Bancroft Arena.
Another donation for the same amount went to Bancroft Community Transit.
“Both organizations are quite critical in our community. Community transit delivers for us and they are really struggling to keep their heads above water.”
Piercy said it is wonderful to build and deepen connections with the local Indigenous community.
The community cupboard started as an informal food bank in 1992 and became a registered charity in 1997.
Piercey said she has personal experience with poverty. Though her life situation is now stable, she can appreciate the struggle some residents go through, particularly after eight years with the organization.
“It’s a tiny town but we have really upped our game… we own our own building, we paid off the mortgage a few years ago.”
The community cupboard serves what Piercey says is a lot of ‘unhoused’ folks and those that are in danger of becoming ‘unhoused’.
“We do serve quite a few folks and we support these smaller food banks in the region. So in Northern Hastings County we are known as the food hub.”
They also offer a holiday hamper program and holiday meals.
All the work is done with a few part-time staff and about a dozen volunteers.
“We are quite a dynamic crew.”
There is also a partnership with York River P.S., where students look after indoor grow towers, and learn about fresh produce, nutrition and their community.
“It’s expanding their palates.”
