NEWS RELEASE
FOOD BANK OF WATERLOO REGION
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The Food Bank of Waterloo Region is excited to announce the launch of an evening hamper pickup service in Kitchener. Made possible through a new refrigerated locker system, this innovative service offers greater flexibility for individuals in need of emergency food assistance.
Six refrigerated lockers have been installed in a City of Kitchener community centre, ensuring food stays fresh and safe for pick up. Each week, households will be able to access food hampers containing fresh, frozen, and non-perishable items.
This new initiative is designed to support individuals with fixed work schedules or other commitments that make it challenging to access food assistance during regular hours. By offering after-hours access, the refrigerated lockers provide a contactless and convenient experience for those seeking food support.
“We’re excited to offer this new service to better meet the needs of our community,” says Kim Wilhelm, CEO of The Food Bank of Waterloo Region. “This program helps remove barriers for individuals and households in need of emergency food assistance.”
To access the evening hamper pickup service, individuals must first contact The Food Bank’s Centralized Food Assistance Outreach line at 519.743.5576 extension 340. Priority will be given to households that are unable to access food hampers during regular hours. Once their hamper is delivered, participants will receive a personal access code to unlock their assigned locker.
The project is supported by a $22,920 grant from Food Banks Canada’s 2023 Access Grant, which helps cover the costs of the locker system and its implementation.
“Our latest Community Impact report showed that the demand for food support has reached the highest levels in the The Food Bank’s 40-year history,” added Wilhelm. “This initiative is just one example of how we’re adapting our services to better serve our diverse and growing population.”
In the coming months, The Food Bank will monitor the use of the refrigerated lockers to assess demand and determine whether the program will be expanded.
For more information or to inquire about accessing the evening hamper pickup service, please contact The Food Bank at 519.743.5576 extension 340 or [email protected].
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