As the price of groceries continues to be a challenge for many, Alberta’s government is ensuring food banks have the resources to help Albertans. To increase food security for Albertans, $10 million is being provided to food banks and community organizations across the province to ensure Alberta families can put nutritious food on their tables. This is part of a commitment to deliver adequate, ongoing funding to food banks to ensure Alberta families can put nutritious food on their tables.
“Nobody should ever be left wondering where their next meal will come from. With this funding, more Albertans across the province will have access to critical supports to get the food they need. The rising cost of living has put increased pressures on many communities across the province and our government will continue to have Albertans backs.”
Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services
Through this funding, $3.7 million is going to food banks this month. Of this funding, $900,000 of funding to food banks has already been provided to the Family and Community Support Services Association of Alberta to administer food security grants, and to shelters to provide food for those experiencing homelessness. $4.1 million will be allocated through food security grants. Applications will open this month to organizations promoting food security, including smaller organizations that provide culturally appropriate food. Food Banks Alberta will also receive $2.2 million to develop a program to coordinate the needs of food banks and related operators during emergency needs such as natural disasters.
“Food banks in Alberta embody the ideal of making the very most out of what you have been given. Through the generosity of everyday Albertans and the support of our government, we can continue this work of doing what needs to be done to address food insecurity in our communities with consideration, compassion, efficiency, and effectiveness.”
Shawna Bissell, executive director, Food Banks Alberta
“As the Christmas season is around the corner, Edmonton’s Food Bank appreciates the support from the Government of Alberta to feed our neighbours at this critical time of year. We do our work can by can, and dollar by dollar and for our festive and Christmas campaign, we will need to raise approximately $4 million and 300,000 kilograms of food to serve our community.”
Marjorie Bencz, executive director, Edmonton’s Food Bank
“On behalf of our clients and community, we are grateful to the provincial government for its ongoing financial support for our sector as we address rising food insecurity. As we respond to a 30 per cent increase in demand since last year, this additional funding will enable us to be there for our neighbours, including newcomers, individuals or families accessing the food bank for the first time. We will continue to work collaboratively with our sector colleagues, our community, and the provincial government to support every single Albertan who needs us."
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