The Parish of St. Dunstan鈥檚 has launched a food bank awareness campaign to help restock the Aldergrove Food Bank鈥檚 shelves.
Running from Aug. 1 to Oct. 12, the initiative encourages community members to bring at least one non-perishable item each Sunday.
Rev. Clarence Li, rector at St. Dunstan鈥檚, said the idea was sparked after speaking with parishioners who reported that the food bank鈥檚 supplies were running low. Although Aldergrove is part of the Township of 91原创, he noted that most food security resources are concentrated in the City of 91原创.
The first collection, held Aug. 3, focused on canned vegetables and fruits. While turnout was modest with up to two dozen items, Li expressed hope that the donations will grow as awareness spreads.
Li said the awareness month aims to remind the community that food insecurity doesn鈥檛 take a summer break.
鈥淲ith 50 to 70 people regularly attending, even one item each can really add up,鈥� Li said. 鈥淲e wanted to create something everyone can participate in, especially now, when people鈥檚 wallets are tighter.鈥�
St. Dunstan鈥檚 has a history of supporting food security. Prior to the pandemic, the church hosted weekly community meals, which later transitioned into Thursday takeout dinners. This is a service that continues today.
Weekly donation themes are posted on the church website, and the public can join in the campaign. Items can be dropped off not only on Sundays but throughout the week. The church office is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and donations can also be made at the Aldergrove Food Bank.
鈥淧eople here have great community spirit," said Li. "They come together and create local solutions."
