Opening Doors: What Food Bank Accreditation Means for Carbonear

For more than 30 years, The Salvation Army in Carbonear has been a vital source of support for individuals and families facing food insecurity. With its food bank operating out of the local church and powered entirely by dedicated volunteers, the team has long been committed to meeting the growing needs of the community. Still, meeting the increasing demand has come with challenges.

“There’s always a need greater than what we can accommodate,” says Captain Lana Anstey, local corps officer. “People are very generous, and we’re grateful for donations from individuals, churches, and even events like the Santa Clause Parade. But we do have to buy a lot of food to meet demand.”

The team provides approximately 120 food hampers each month, along with additional supports like Christmas assistance through a community-driven wish board. Despite generous local support, the rising need meant it was time to consider new ways to strengthen the food bank’s impact.

Pursuing Accreditation

“Accreditation means we’re meeting national standards,” says Lieutenant Jamie Anstey, local corps officer. “Some of those standards are intense, but it’s worth it. It opens the door to new funding opportunities and helps ensure we’re doing things right.”

Captain Lana took the lead locally, with four of the six units completed by THQ and strong support throughout the process. The team also made small upgrades—like purchasing new trolleys and tables—thanks to grant funding.

Most importantly, volunteers embraced the challenge with pride.

“Our volunteers are incredible,” Captain Lana shares. “They accommodated everything we needed to do, and they’re proud to be part of something recognized at the national level.”

A Welcoming Community Space

While accreditation has brought practical improvements, the heart of the food bank lies in the community it creates.

Each Tuesday and Friday morning, volunteers not only pack and distribute food but also offer a warm cup of coffee and a listening ear.

“People come here not just for food,” Captain Lana explains. “They come because someone listens to them. They come to feel seen.”

That sense of belonging extends to the volunteers, too. One regular volunteer, Susan, comes twice a week to help pack hampers. Her presence is a reminder that everyone has something valuable to offer.

“We’ve got 8 to 10 regular volunteers,” says Lieutenant Jamie. “They register clients, pack food, and create such a welcoming environment. It’s a team effort, and everyone plays an important role.”

Looking Ahead

The team has exciting plans for the future. They will be participating in Food Banks Canada’s After the Bell program, which provides nutritious snack packs for children during the summer months. This year will be the first time they’ve offered such a program.

They’re also creating more welcoming spaces by putting out puzzles, games, and crafts in the waiting area. “We want it to feel like a community centre; a welcoming and comfortable space,” says Captain Lana.

Additionally, the food bank is forming collaborative relationships with nearby organizations like the Harbour Grace Food Bank, and they continue to apply for grants to enhance their services.

How the Community Can Help

The food bank is open Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and the team encourages ongoing community involvement. Food donations, volunteer time, and prayers are always welcome.

As demand grows, they’re also seeing an increase in international students accessing the food bank, prompting the team to consider how they can better serve clients of different cultures and backgrounds.

“There’s a strong connection between our church and our food bank,” says Lieutenant Jamie. “We pray over our clients. We serve them with dignity. And we’re here for them—not just with food, but with compassion.”