Volunteer Appreciation

I have written before about the children’s book giveaway at our local food bank. But I have never told you about the main part of the activity – the food. As we approach Thanksgiving, it seems appropriate to do so.

The Christ Church St. James Food Pantry is one of the oldest food banks in Toronto. It has been operating since the late 1980’s when the church recognized a “temporary” need for food support for local residents. Unfortunately, the need is ongoing and has increased over 300% since the pandemic. The food pantry is non-denominational and welcomes anyone who qualifies for food support.

Our book table is in the lobby of the building, along with the registration desk. After registering, the clients go downstairs to a large room filled with tables holding food. Sometimes I take a moment to go downstairs and have a look. The place is a beehive of activity. Each table displays something different: vegetables, canned food, dairy products, meat, baked goods, even personal items such as shampoo and tooth paste. Food is given away on the basis of need and family size.

But the most obvious giveaway is the personal connection. One can only imagine the embarrassment and anxiety our clients feel – those who have lost their jobs, or have disabilities, or have surrendered their savings to a scammer, or have recently immigrated from another culture – having to ask for a basic need like food so that they and their children can survive.

Over 250 families visit this food bank. Most are greeted by first name. They are met at the registration desk with a smile and a willingness to sort out any registration or personal issues. Then they pass by our book table where the children can each choose a free book to take home. Going towards the stairs, they are greeted by an assistant who has learned some words of welcome in several languages. If they have trouble with the stairs, there is an elevator and an operator to help. Stories are shared about the weather, a new grandchild, or the latest Blue Jays win (Just thought I’d throw that in).

It takes more than 80 volunteers and 3 co-ordinators to run this food bank; organizing the staff, interviewing potential clients, collecting the food from various resources, and then sorting it and distributing it with fairness and caring. Last week we had our annual volunteer appreciation evening. It’s a chance for volunteers to enjoy one another’s company, share stories, and pat ourselves on the back for a job well done.

Last year in Toronto over 3.4 million visits were made to food banks by clients. The average monthly income is under $1500. About 30% often go for an entire day without food. In a wealthy city such as ours, this is tragic. For seniors who have time to spare, and an interest in staying connected and giving something of value to the community, a volunteer position at a food bank is worth considering.

Sue

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