Minden Community Food Centre: More than a food bank
There are many misconceptions about who uses the services of a food bank.
- The majority of people who use a food bank have jobs (working poor) but cannot make ends meet because of a lack of available hours or rate of pay.
- Over 40% of our clients who need our help are children.
- Many are reluctant to go to a food bank for help.
- Many clients have to make hard choices monthly about paying rent, paying bills (like the heating bill) and buying food.
Shopping Buddies
OUR VISION: Introducing Shopping Buddies. In short, the program allows clients the ability to shop for their own food at the food bank (with the support of a shopping buddy volunteer). The program employs a point system (based on the size of the household) that encourages clients to select healthier food options.
Having a "shopping buddy" also allows clients to connect with others so we may get a better understanding of other ways we may be able to assist.
We also understand that not everyone can cook. Our Community Kitchen programs will teach people how to prepare the various items often found in our food centre...we'll even provide the recipes!
Having a "shopping buddy" also allows clients to connect with others so we may get a better understanding of other ways we may be able to assist.
We also understand that not everyone can cook. Our Community Kitchen programs will teach people how to prepare the various items often found in our food centre...we'll even provide the recipes!
- The Minden Food Bank is a not for profit organization that currently has over 600 registered users and annually gives out over $180,000 of food.
- The amount of food that the MFB gave out increased 70% between the years 2008 and 2013
- The number of clients that access the services of the Minden Food bank has grown 31% between 2008 and 2013.
- The number of kids we assist annually has grown 42% between 2008 and 2013.
- The MFB assists a number of community organizations and programs and recently was a key part of the support offered to Minden flood victims and their families.