It's always busy at the St. Albert Food Bank and it's only getting busier.
First the organization moved to its new location, a larger warehouse next to Canadian Tire. Then it opened the Community Village. Now, an annual fundraising auction is ramping up, which should help re-stock shelves that have gone bare.
As far as executive director Suzan Krecsy is concerned, she doesn't know where to start. They are all equally important and equally vital.
Krecsy said stocks are critically low for the following food items: powdered milk, jam and diapers (size 5/6).
"This is the leanest time of year for all food banks. Things drop off after Christmas right across the country. This is when food banks have to start purchasing food or doing some 'bartering with other food banks."
The Community Village
"We've got it up and running. We've been doing it for a year. People are saying, 'Why don't we know about it?'"
The new addition started in early 2010 with the placement of registered social worker Fay Lucy, former senior program co-ordinator at the Edmonton Food Bank. Acting as the community liaison worker, Lucy helps clients get through challenges with finances, employment and even health issues. She helps people find the right path and makes referrals to local social agencies.
"[She] can address all issues. We take care of people from birth to seniors," Krecsy said, adding that this isn't professional counselling.
Lucy has had a very busy slate since the beginning. She has the NOW program to add to her outreach methods. The acronym for Nurturing Opportunities of Wellness is a four-week series that teaches life skills for clients to reduce stress and anxiety.
Another new stress reduction program is running in partnership with the Salvation Army. That one focuses on gentle movement and deep breathing.
The up-and-running community kitchen has a cooking series for clients.
"We're getting a good response. We're getting some really good facilitators in."
The St. Albert Community Village is open weekdays by appointment only. Please call 780-459-0585.
Silent Auction
This second annual event takes place on Saturday, April 16 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the food bank. A professional chef will cater an international smorgasbord of delights focusing on Italy, Mexico and Greece. The ingredients will all be donated.
"Don't eat before you come."
Krecsy hopes for a full house to fill the coffers. Right now, she is trying to put the finishing touches on remodelling to accommodate more services on the Community Village's undeveloped second floor. The plan is set for an office, classroom and meeting room to allow for professionals to come in and attend to the clients.
"We're really sticking to the 'everything under one roof' or 'walking through one door' policy to get all of [the clients'] needs met here, which makes it easier for them."
The price tag on her wish list stands at $100,000. That will also cover the cost of the installation of a much-needed HVAC system. The Community Village currently doesn't have heating.
Tickets are $25 at the door or $20 in advance. They can be purchased from the food bank, Innovations Music or the Eye Health Centre. Famed Edmonton cartoonist Gerry Rasmussen will scribble caricatures for extra donations and Innovations will provide musical entertainment. Krecsy also promised some fantastic auction items.
