As the new school year quickly approaches, the Brantford Food Bank is seeking donations of school supplies for children of all ages.
In 2021, the Brantford Food Bank supported 310 children with brand new backpacks and supplies however, in 2022 we are anticipating more requests for this type of support. With the sharp increase in the cost of living and more families in precarious rental situations, a brand-new backpack may seem like a luxury item.
Since the start of the pandemic, the Brantford Food Bank has seen the need for food support rise. We’ve experienced a 69% increase in the number of individuals served in June 2022 when compared to June 2020. Thirty four per cent of our food bank clients are children under 18 so tailoring our programs to our youngest clients remains a priority. We are more than a food bank. Life for a child experiencing food insecurity can be filled with worry and discomfort, which is why providing a moment of joy and setting them up for success is important to the work that we do.
“If a family cannot afford food, they cannot afford a new backpack,” said Heather Vanner, Executive Director of Community Resource Service. “These are the hard decisions parents make when raising children in a crisis, but we know that children learn best when confident and armed with the tools to do the work”.
Brantford Food Bank will be accepting donations of backpacks, supplies, gift cards and funds to purchase what is needed at 1100 Clarence St S, Brantford Ontario, N3S 7N8 or online at https://crs-help.ca/foodbank/programs/stuff-a-backpack/.
Donations can also be made at Sweet Bakery, 403 Fairview Dr, Brantford, ON N3R 2X8, Wednesday – Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm.
