The Salvation Army in Bermuda Steps Up to Fight Food Insecurity

Like many countries worldwide, Bermuda continues to deal with food insecurity. Rising inflation has made daily life more expensive, leaving many individuals struggling to put food on the table and provide for their families.

To help address the growing need, The Salvation Army’s North Street Citadel operates a daily feeding program that currently serves an average of 100 meals to people experiencing food insecurity.

Diann Matthews has led the program for the past eight years. She prepares the meals and coordinates a team of more than 40 volunteers who help distribute them.

“We prepare meals for people in need and serve one hour each day,” Diann explains. “I try to always have a well-balanced meal that includes starch, vegetables and meat.”

The program runs five days a week. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday through Saturday. It is open to everyone.

“We don’t require any personal information. If someone is in need, they can come and get a meal,” Diann says.

Over the years, Diann has witnessed the demand for food grow significantly. They used to provide 60 to 70 meals a day. Now it is well over 100.

“Unfortunately, we’re seeing families. The need has grown exponentially, especially over the past year,” she says.

“The need has grown exponentially, especially over the past year.”

Despite challenges, many clients express deep gratitude for the support they receive.

“I met a guest who said that if it weren’t for The Salvation Army, he would probably be in jail because he would be forced to steal to be able to eat,” Diann shares.

For the feeding program’s team, it’s not just about serving food. It’s also about offering kindness and dignity. Creating a welcoming, judgment-free space is part of what makes the program impactful.

Diann likes to remind her volunteers that food insecurity can happen to anyone.

“I say to my volunteers; we could all be in the client’s shoes any day. I have a job today, but tomorrow I might not. I could be in that same position,” Diann says.

“I have a job today, but tomorrow I might not. I could be in that same position.”

This perspective helps individuals who have access to basic needs understand the importance of supporting the feeding program. It also reminds those receiving food assistance that such situations can happen to anyone.

While Diann hopes to one day see the need decrease, she remains committed to serving nutritious meals and spreading compassion.

“I’m grateful that God has allowed me to be in this position, to help make people’s lives just a little bit better.”

To help provide essential services visit: https://salvationarmy.bm/donate/.

By Juan Romero