A West End community group is making sure that residents don’t go hungry. The South Valour Residents Association set up a community pantry at Denson/Riddle Park to help ease the strain of food insecurity. The pantry, which opened on Monday, is filled with bottled water, non-perishable food items and hygiene products. Kyle Wiebe, co-chair of the association, said the pantry has already been restocked twice as food has been going quickly. “Considering the food (has) been going quickly, it seems like there’s a need for it,” he said. “Everybody knows times are tough these days, just with the economy and even the heat waves...So I hope that it continues to happen [in other communities].” Wiebe said the pantry came to be after community members expressed a need for improved food security. He noted it’s also the result of a four-year partnership with the University of Winnipeg on anti-oppressive, grassroots safety measures. “For the pantry, if people meet their basic needs, it’s just a lot easier to be safe,” he said. “And if you have trust and respect from your neighbours, such as giving food to each other, that’s an important way to connect with your neighbours and feel a sense of safety in the neighbourhood. Those who want to help are encouraged to drop off any non-perishables or everyday essentials.
