Salvation Army in Kamloops Tackles Rising Food Insecurity
In Kamloops, B.C., The Salvation Army operates a variety of programs to address food insecurity. Like many cities across the country, the high cost of living has increased demand for the organization’s services.
One initiative is the Community Response Unit (CRU) lunch. Once a week, The Salvation Army visits five different locations, serving not only those experiencing homelessness, but also families, seniors and individuals facing financial hardship.
“It’s an essential service that we provide. A lot of these folks are in need and they look forward to a nutritious lunch each week,” says Major Orest Goyak from The Salvation Army in Kamloops.
Providing residents with a meal allows some to save money for future grocery needs. For others, it may be the only food they have that day.
“A lot of these folks are in need and they look forward to a nutritious lunch each week.”
“It helps the community stretch their dollars,” Major Orest adds.
A team of up to eight volunteers, along with two staff members, work to make the program possible. They handle meal preparation and delivery and also interact with the people they serve.
“We usually have two volunteers in the truck getting food ready, while the rest distribute bread items and talk to individuals,” Major Orest says.
The CRU lunch is just one of several food security programs operated by this Salvation Army unit. They also run a weekly initiative called “Breakfast Link”, which serves up to 60 people each session. It provides a hot morning meal to seniors and caregivers with children, forming new opportunities for connection.
“We are trying to link the two generations; it’s been a great part of building our community,” Major Orest shares.
The Salvation Army in Kamloops also offers an emergency food bank and a free bread program.
The impact of these initiatives is evident in the lives of those who rely on them. Major Orest recalls a moment that stood out to him.
“With extra funding, we would be able to expand and serve more people.”
“We had a guest who showed up half an hour early for breakfast, telling us he was hungry. He is a senior living in his truck and it breaks my heart to see that. So that proves this is an essential service, for sure,” he shares.
With rising grocery and fuel prices, the reality is that demand will continue to increase. However, Major Orest and his team, with the help of donors, are committed to working hard to provide nourishment to those struggling.
“We hope to continue our programs with additional support from the community. With extra funding, we would be able to expand and serve more people,” Major Orest concludes.
By Juan Romero
