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Food bank client numbers rise after years of dropping

The Terrace Churches Food Bank saw numbers increase in its first opening of its season this October.

After several years of dropping client numbers, the Terrace Churches Food Bank saw numbers increase in its first opening of its season this October.

Approximately 300 people came to receive 450 bags of groceries, says John Wiebenga from the food bank.

In October 2010, 367 families took home 546 bags of food; in October 2011, 364 families received 536 bags; in October 2012, about 324 families received about 476 bags; and last year, October 13, about 250 families received about 420 food bags.

“We were very blessed with many different food drives and collections that took place in our community over the summer and into the fall,” he says.

“Needless to say, our Food Bank was well-stocked to start the new season.”

And that included receiving freshly dug potatoes from the local community garden, which was gratefully received by clients, he added.

For November’s week-long opening, the food bank could use more baby food of any kind as more clients are requesting it, said Wiebenga.

Products like toothpaste, shampoo and other hygienic products are also regularly requested, he added.

A couple of new pastors have recently arrived in town and are volunteering with the interviewing process of the clients that come through the doors, said Wiebenga.

Eight to 10 people are regularly involved in this aspect of volunteering.

Lots of volunteers helped out this month, he said.

In total, approximately 100 volunteers help in various ways each and every month.

“And the whole community helps out by giving generously,” he said.