I LOVE FOOD. I come from a long line of people that also love food. Childhood memories and family get-togethers are marked by a good meal and a supply of TUMS to go around.

So as I continue to volunteer at the Calgary Food Bank, I have become increasingly humbled and impressed by the organization. Not only are they tackling hunger in our city, but providing clients the tools to get back on their feet and enjoy life’s milestones.

The Birthday Room

Most people don’t know that the Food Bank has a Birthday Room. Volunteers sort through donated gifts, cake mix and birthday candles. Just enough to create a great day for families that are already grateful clients.

This year, The Calgary Food Bank is celebrating it’s 30th anniversary. The staff, volunteers and donors exemplify the very best of Calgarians taking care of each other and being resourceful. In 1982, the organization’s founders did not foresee there being a long term need to address hunger in our city. Thirty years later, they are busier than ever.

To this day, The Calgary Food Bank operates completely on DONATIONS. No government funding here. Lining the walls of the volunteer area are oversized cardboard cheques showcasing the generousity of various organizations. When purchasing food, staff can take ONE DOLLAR and purchase FOUR DOLLARS worth of food for clients.

When’s the last time you’d seen that kind of return on investment?

For more information:

Calgary Food Bank Warehouse
5000 11 Street SE
Calgary, AB T2H 2Y5

http://www.calgaryfoodbank.com/

Twitter: @CalgaryFoodBank