Bermuda Food Bank Responds to Growing Demand with Nutritious Options

In Bermuda, The Salvation Army’s North Street Food Bank is seeing a rise in demand as summer approaches. Thankfully, the Centennial Bermuda Foundation recently made a big donation to different organizations across the Island, including The Salvation Army. This contribution was specifically made to support food assistance programs.

In May, 185 households accessed assistance and by mid-June, this number had already reached 116. This shows there is a steady stream of people who will use the food bank over the next couple of months, especially during school breaks, when parents will have to provide more meals daily.

“We’ve seen a lot of people come back this month,” says Kellie Edwards, food bank coordinator. “We are starting to see guests we hadn’t seen since Christmas.”

“We’ve seen a lot of people come back this month.”

With the recent funding, North Street started purchasing nutritious food staples to add to the groceries already provided.

“When clients get fresh vegetables and meat instead of canned goods, they are very appreciative. Many of them can’t afford this regularly,” shares Captain Dennis Maybury, public relations officer.

Kellie adds that healthier items make a meaningful difference for those guests with medical conditions.

“We have clients who are currently dealing with cancer. Many of them are struggling to pay bills and can’t afford the food they should be eating. So, this donation allows us to offer them the healthy options they need,” she says.

“Many of them are struggling to pay bills and can’t afford the food they should be eating.”

While the generous contribution will help the food bank stay strong for the near future, the need will remain further down the line and staff are hoping to keep providing nutritious alternatives. For that reason, donations are crucial to maintain the service.

For those unable to donate but who want to help, volunteer opportunities are available to support the Army’s food programs in Bermuda. Each night, they serve over 100 people during a community dinner.

Looking ahead, Kellie says The Salvation Army hopes to expand access to healthy food to more people. The plan is to provide fruits to school lunch programs when students return in the fall.

By Juan Romero