Seniors Step Up for their Community

Note: the photo above was taken before the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Seniors have become the driving force behind The Salvation Army food bank in Dartmouth as they volunteer each week to prepare food boxes for families in need.

Each Monday, an average of ten volunteers prepare up to 40 food boxes for distribution in the afternoon. They are seniors who are young at heart with the average age being 75. Since the pandemic protocols came into effect, some of them stayed home for health reasons but they resumed once the new protocols were mandated and restrictions eased.

“They will come to help rain or shine”

All boxes are spread out and packed in the mornings with a variety of food items, including canned food, produce, bread, and frozen goods. It’s a steady pace, but they all keep up with the process until the boxes are complete. 

“They will come to help rain or shine,” says Lt. Shelley Oseil. “Some volunteers will stop by on non-food bank days for a friendly visit. Not much will keep our volunteers from coming out each week. They love what they do, and it shows in their dependability and the relationships they have built,” she adds.

“I don’t know what to say but thank you”

The senior volunteers have discovered that the food bank is more than distributing food – it is serving their community. It is common to hear comments from clients such as, “I don’t know what to say but thank you” and, “I’m going to eat today.” Many call just to offer thanks and appreciation for the food they’ve received, which motivates the volunteers to continue donating their time. 

“We can’t meet all the needs, but we can provide a substantial amount of food to help offset their food costs,” says Shelley. “Especially during this challenging time.”

Join our team of thousands of volunteers across Canada who are bringing hope to those in need. 

 
By: Jan Keats