Food Drive Raises Over 2,000 Pounds for The Salvation Army

In recent years, The Salvation Army food bank in Estevan, Sask., has seen a dramatic increase in people seeking food support.

According to Ronza Reynard, the community ministries director, about 300 clients visit the food bank each month. This number nearly doubles pre-pandemic figures.

“We are a city of 10,000 people, so 300 a month is a lot of people,” Ronza says.

She adds that in 2024 the food bank has seen first-time clients every single month.

The Salvation Army’s support is more essential than ever for the residents of Estevan. Fortunately, the community comes together and partners with the Army to ensure no one goes hungry.

On Oct 26, The Salvation Army teamed up with Canada Post to organize the annual “Stamp Out Hunger” event.

Donors placed non-perishable food items, as well as essential needs such as toilet paper and feminine hygiene products at their doorstep. Canada Post employees collected and delivered them to The Salvation Army, where they were sorted to restock the shelves. By the end of the day, a total of 2,400 pounds of food had been collected, with a few hundred more pounds received in the following days.

“It’s a great help for people who are unable to spend a lot of money on their groceries.”

Volunteers from The Salvation Army and other local organizations were crucial to the success of the food drive.

“We are so thankful for the support. This would be a lot of work without volunteers,” Ronza adds.

The boost in food products for the food bank will help kick start The Salvation Army in Estevan’s busy Christmas season.

“It’s a great help for people who are unable to spend a lot of money on their groceries,” says Jasmine, food bank client.

“We are always open to monetary donations that will allow us then to go shop for the things that we need for the food bank.”

For The Salvation Army staff, seeing satisfied clients motivates them to serve the community as best they can.

“The community sees what we’re doing. They trust us , and so we are happy to be able to do it,” Ronza shares.

As the holidays approach, Ronza urges everyone to continue supporting The Salvation Army.

“We are always open to monetary donations that will allow us then to go shop for the things that we need for the food bank. Right now, we are getting ready to go into Christmas, so we’re just gearing up for that.”

By Juan Romero

Photo: Lemuel Alquino from GoldenWest Broadcasting