Above: Homelessness is an issue that rural Albertans face, even though it’s one commonly associated with big cities. As Vinesh Pratap reports, as the problems receive more attention, they also require more funding.
EDMONTON – A food bank west of Edmonton is expanding.
The Parkland County Food Bank is seeing an increase in demand and has run out of space in its current location.
The food bank is available to some 70,000 people in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain and the surrounding county.
Last year the charity had over 16,000 visits from individuals seeking food.
The 2013 annual report showed over 40 per cent of clients were under age.
On Tuesday, the Parkland County Food Bank is launching its “Community Helping Community To Make Healthy Food Accessible” campaign, and unveiling plans for future growth.
The food bank wants to expand in order to create an environment that is safe for volunteers, and not crowded or overwhelming for clients. The expansion has been in the works for over six years.
The organization received several large donations towards the building project, including $100,000 from the Spruce Grove Rotary Club in 2012 and $125,000 from Alberta Culture’s Community Facility Enhancement Program in 2013.
More to come…
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BELOW: The Parkland Food Bank 2013 Annual Report
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