Food insecurity affects millions of people worldwide, including those in our local communities. In Canada, 1 in 7 individuals experience food insecurity, which means they do not have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs.

Food banks are a critical resource for those experiencing food insecurity, providing individuals and families with access to food when they need it most. Supporting your local food bank is an excellent way to give back to your community and help those in need. Here are some facts and stats to illustrate why supporting your local food bank is essential:

• In Canada, over 1.1 million individuals access food banks every month. 35.2% of those individuals are children under 18.
• Over 50% of Canadian households that use food banks have at least one adult working full-time.
• In Toronto alone, over 1 in 8 households experience food insecurity.
• According to a survey conducted by Food Banks Canada, 70% of food banks in Canada reported an increase in demand for their services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Food banks rely heavily on donations from individuals and businesses in their communities to operate. In 2020, Food Banks Canada reported a 20% decline in food donations and a 30% decline in financial donations due to the pandemic.

By supporting your local food bank, you can help combat food insecurity and support your community. Here are some ways you can get involved:

• Donate food: Check your local food bank’s website to see what items they are in need of, and drop off non-perishable food items at their location.
• Donate funds: Financial donations are critical for food banks to purchase fresh produce, meat, and other perishable items. Consider making a one-time or recurring donation to your local food bank.
• Volunteer: Many food banks rely on volunteers to sort and distribute food donations. Contact your local food bank to see if they are in need of volunteers.
• Spread the word: Raise awareness about food insecurity in your community by sharing information about your local food bank on social media or hosting a food drive.

Food insecurity is a prevalent issue affecting many individuals and families in our local communities. Supporting your local food bank is an excellent way to make a difference and help those in need. By donating food, funds, or your time, you can make a positive impact on your community and combat food insecurity. Furthering this cause and combating this concern, Sai Dham Food Bank is working to bring down the number of starved individuals and make a difference.

You can be a part of the team and show your support through one-time, weekly or monthly donations alongside other ways including volunteering hours. Sai Dham Food Bank is an initiative of Sai Dham Canada and provides a receipt for all the donations received. To explore more, click here.