A city-wide food drive in Belleville two weekends from now is aiming to address a still-pressing need in the community.
Gleaners Food Bank is organizing the drive-through event on Saturday, October 4 and Sunday, October 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with donations of non-perishable food and financial gifts being accepted at 25 Wallbridge Crescent in Belleville.
Community Engagement Specialist for Gleaners Jodie Jenkins says usage of the food bank has more than doubled since before COVID, and Gleaners is now averaging over 1,000 food hampers each month.
“We are also supporting twice as many employed families as we did pre-pandemic—hard-working neighbors whose budgets can’t keep pace with rising costs, “Jenkins stated.
He added he is counting on the generosity of Belleville residents to make a difference in the community.
“When we show up for one another, families eat, kids go to school with full lunches, and seniors don’t have to choose between heat and groceries.”
Gleaners staff says volunteers are still needed to help with collection and traffic flow at the event.
If you’re interested, email volunteer@gleanersfoodbank.ca or visit Gleaners’ website.
(BROCK ORMOND)
