Client Demand is on the Rise at the Prince George Food Bank

In the past few years, the number of clients needing access to The Salvation Army food bank in Prince George, B.C., has increased steadily.

Community Ministries Supervisor, Terra Laflamme, who oversees the food bank’s operation, says the current level of demand they are experiencing is unprecedented.

“I would say this is the highest demand we have experienced. Since before COVID-19, we have seen a 40 per cent increase in the number of people accessing the food bank,” Terra said.

“We have seen a 40 per cent increase in the number of people accessing the food bank.”

The food bank has a food recovery program, which allows grocery stores to donate their perishable products to The Salvation Army. Fortunately, this program has supported the food bank daily and has helped them to have just enough for their clients. However, the food bank has had to take certain measures to ensure every client can be fed.

During the five days a week that the food bank is open, Terra says that on one or two of those days, they’ve had to reduce the amount of food given to clients, as some products run out due to the high demand.

“Most of the people that come in and share their story say that the cost of food has been a huge challenge for them over the last year,” Terra said.

Deanna Gibson, food bank client

A long-time client of the food bank, Deanna Gibson, agrees that more people than usual are coming to the food bank. She is not surprised by this as she believes the rising cost of living is making it harder for people to make it through the month.

“Because of the high prices, people that are on fixed incomes need the food bank to get through the month. Gas prices went up, hydro went up, and you can’t even find a one-bedroom apartment in this town for a reasonable price,” Deanna said.

“If it wasn’t for The Salvation Army, my children and I would’ve starved.”

Recently Deanna has also noticed that the amount of dairy and meat provided has decreased. However, she is still very much satisfied with how the food bank has dealt with the increase in clients and for the help she has received over the years.

Deanna started coming to the Prince George food bank 14 years ago. She had to access the service after gaining custody of her four grandchildren, due to the passing of her daughter to cancer. Having to maintain four kids with only her disability pension, old age security, and child tax credit, Deanna was forced to seek assistance.

“If it wasn’t for The Salvation Army, my children and I would’ve starved,” she said.

For more information, please visit https://www.sapg.ca/services/food-bank/.

By Juan Romero