Food bank faces record demand and donation decline as summer pressures mount

As the summer season begins, the Barrie Food Bank reports record-breaking demand for assistance at a time when donations are typically at their lowest.

In May, donations to the food bank were down $13,000 compared to the same time last year, while client visits continue to rise.

“May brought 7,460 visits, a record high for us,” said Karen Shuh, executive director with the Barrie Food Bank.

Shuh said the surge in demand includes a growing number of children and seniors. Last month, the food bank served nearly 2,600 children under 18 and more than 330 seniors - both new records.

“We’re seeing more and more people accessing our services due to job loss, reduced hours, rising rent, mortgage renewals and the general cost of living,” the executive director added.

Shuh highlighted that food insecurity can happen to anyone. “Many are first-time visitors who never imagined needing a food bank, which is becoming a growing theme.”

With school now out, the food bank expects need to continue rising as many families will face additional expenses like daycare and summer camp.

Recognizing the growing need to support children during the summer break, Food Banks Canada stepped in with support through its ‘After the Bell’ program - so for the first time, Shuh said Barrie would receive funding to provide nutritious, child-friendly food packs to local children in need.

And Shuh said it couldn’t have come at a better time. “The summer months are historically lean for donations.”