Columbia Valley Food Bank - Nourishing the Valley

I arrived at the Columbia Valley Food Bank just before opening to take some photos for a social networking post. The doors were locked, but something was happening around the back of the building.

Volunteers were busily unloading a truck that contained a massive amount of food from an anonymous donation. Prouduce, meats, breads, pasta, and canned goods poured into the building just in time; The end of the month is the busiest time for the Food Bank as pocketbooks are stretched to cover bills and rent in a town where the cost of living continues to rise.

For almost a decade, the Columbia Valley Food Bank has been providing much needed support for individuals and families, from Spillimacheen to Canal Flats, whose current needs are not being met by society. People from all walks of life rely on these services.

Through Home Hardware’s support of the Groundswell Community Garden and JA Laird’s Student Learn to Grow Program, hundreds of kilograms of fresh produce have been grown, donated, and distributed to people in the Columbia Valley, helping to ensure that families have nutritious food to eat. In fact, last year, these community gardens donated 500kg of produce to the Columbia Valley Food Bank.

Executive Director., Katrina Chapman

“Many people hesitate to ask for this kind of help.” Says Executive Director., Katrina Chapman. Times are tough and money is tight for many people, especially over the last few years through the Pandemic and the increase in food prices due to issues with the supply chain.

In the first quarter of 2023, food bank use has increased by 24% compared to 2022. Their goal is to ensure everyone’s right to food is realized and to ultimately go out of business because society no longer needs this service. In the interim, they will continue to marshal the donations provided to them for distributing healthy food and support in a responsible manner.

Considering the increase in need mentioned above, the Columbia Valley Food Bank is always accepting donations. The easiest way to give is to simply donate a nonperishable food item the next time you’re shopping. You can also donate financially to this vital community service.

Red Apple, Joe’s NoFrills, Sobey’s, AG Foods, and Radium Public Library, all have donation boxes on-site where food donations may be dropped off. These boxes are emptied on a regular basis by our group of volunteers.

Home Hardware Invermere and Golden are proud community supporters and thank all of the volunteers who help to keep services like the Columbia Valley Food Bank operating smoothly.