by Bronwyn Scott
With Christmas just around the corner, many families are struggling to make ends meet.
Thousands of people – up to 14,000 per month – must rely on the Surrey Food Bank to put food on the table. This year, says Executive Director Marilyn Herrmann, the need is high, with between 250 to 350 families visiting the Surrey Food Bank every day.
“The demand is there, the need is there. We’re serving people whether it’s the month of January or July,” Herrmann said.
The food bank’s Christmas fundraising campaign runs from Nov. 25 through the first week of January.
Donation bins from schools and organizations are in the process of being collected, and various community fundraisers “went very, very well,” according to Herrmann.
But the organization is still in need of donations.
“I’m confident that the community will support us, but at this point we are down on food and cash,” she said.
As for what kinds of products are needed, Herrmann suggested canned vegetables and fruit packaged in natural juices, healthy cereals and protein items. Pasta and pasta sauce also make great contributions, as do meatless options for vegetarian hampers.
“We’re really looking to push for healthier foods,” said Hermann.
Donations can be made at local grocery stores, fire halls and the Surrey Food Bank at 10732 City Parkway, or online at surreyfoodbank.org.
For an even simpler way to contribute, this year for the first time a $10 donation can also be made by texting GIVESFB to 20222.