Brantford Food Bank is getting into the holiday spirit by gearing up for their annual Christmas Baskets program.
In 2021, the Food Bank supported over 2,600 individuals with the same program in addition to our regular emergency food box program. Due to the increased cost of living, they anticipate more families using the service in 2022. This program is only made possible by the generous support within the community.
The program changed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and that change has been well received by families and individuals needing help. In previous years, the Food Bank supplied clients with age-appropriate gifts and a holiday food box filled with meal ingredients.
During the pandemic, the Food Bank moved to gift cards so clients could purchase holiday meals and a gift for each child in the family. A move that will remain permanent for the Christmas Basket program.
“We believe that the opportunity for a parent or guardian to personally select a gift for their child fosters autonomy, empowerment, and dignity while helping to make the holidays extra meaningful for the families we serve,” said Heather Vanner, Executive Director of the Brantford Food Bank.
Additionally, purchasing their own meal allows clients to cater to cultural and dietary needs as well as individual preferences. Every family deserves to celebrate the holidays in a way that best suits their family, needs, and circumstance. The Brantford Food Bank strongly believes that ownership over choice cultivates a powerful sense of dignity and independence.
The Food Bank will be accepting gift cards and monetary donations to purchase gift cards. Please visit www.brantfordfoodbank.com or drop by 1100 Clarence St S, Suite 202. Walmart and PC gift cards in the denominations of $10, $25 & $50 are best suited for the program, however, they welcome all donations.
If you or someone you know is in need of support this Christmas, please visit https://crs-help.ca/foodbank/christmas-baskets/ for information. Registration runs November 7th-18th and will only be online. For inquiries contact info@crs-help.ca. Please note that you can only register for one program in the community, and you will need a valid ID for everyone registered. Pick-up day will be by appointment on December 5th at the Brantford Food Bank.
