THE BATTLEFORDS — The cost of living crisis and rising food insecurity touches almost every Canadian. Here in the Battlefords, rising gas prices, swollen mortgages, steadily increasing food prices and ‘shrinkflation’ have caused a ripple effect on some local charity organizations. The Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre is one of many starting to feel those pressures affect them and their programming.
Erin Katerynych, executive director, says they’re always busy this time of year. However, this year, the rising cost of food has forced them to cut back on the contents in their hampers. At the same time, more people struggling with the cost-of-living crisis have turned to the organization for help, noting that August marks an almost 50 per cent increase in food hampers they’ve given out since last year.
“Even just running to the grocery store for a bag of groceries can cost $100, and the price of gas now,” Katerynych said.
Katerynych says inflation is the main reason BDFRC desperately needs donations, with healthy, non-perishable foods at the top of their list, such as peanut butter, pasta, canned soup, rice and pancake mix.
“What we really need are feminine hygiene products. We get asked for that all the time, and it’s just something that we constantly run out of,” Katerynych says.
Katerynych adds that they’re thankful for the 28,000 pounds of potatoes the community has donated and for the donations of dairy, protein and produce they receive five days a week from local grocery stores.
“We’re always thankful for the community support ... the community is always fabulous.”
Katerynych wants to stress that the stigma around receiving food isn’t helpful, saying that it’s a hand-up, not a handout. The organization requires ID and proof of income and expenses after a third visit to ensure everyone can accurately benefit from the non-profit’s programming.
BDFRC offers various sizes of food hampers to people in need. Still, with a lack of core funding, the organization must rely heavily on grants and community support via donations. BDFRC also hosts other programs beyond food hampers, ranging from income tax preparation, winter coats for kids, Empty Stocking Fund, Christmas hampers and food for kids in elementary school.
If you’re able to donate, BDFRC is always accepting donations. If you’re struggling and need assistance, you can call and inquire about their programming at 1-306-937-5505 or visit their website here: Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre.
