WHO WE ARE
When the Helping Hand Food Bank started in 1991 cans, boxes and non-perishables were staples of our operations. Today, the reality is much different, 68% of all food we distribute is fresh or frozen. Monetary and food donations help us to nourish local families by providing groceries through our food service program. Being the food distribution centre for this area, we also donate surplus provisions to other organizations and churches that provide hot meals for those in need.
This shift – from boxes and cans to fresh and frozen – means we have had to change how we handle food donations. With your help, we are now able to provide healthier food options to those in our community struggling to put food on the table; But along with the fresh and frozen foods we always provided canned soup, canned vegetables, pasta, pasta sauce, canned pasta, peanut butter, tuna, cereal, crackers, beans, rice, stew and diced tomatoes.
Helping Hand Mission Statement:
To provide nourishment and hope to those we serve, and an opportunity for our community to share.
Our Board Members
The Helping Hand Food Bank is guided by a passionate group of 11 dedicated board members who volunteer their time, expertise, and energy to ensure we serve our community effectively. Their leadership helps shape our programs, strengthen our partnerships, and support our mission of providing food to those in need.
President: Doug Cooper
Vice President: Carol Currier
Secretary: Amberleigh Lannoo
Treasurer: Marian Smith
Past President: Tom Langrell
Director: Lance MacKenzie
Director: Sara Dekeyser
Director: Karlee Slattery
Director: Jennifer Goncalves
Director: Wayne Vansevenant
Director: Sue Saelens
Coordinator: Samantha Hamilton
As the Coordinator of the Helping Hand Food Bank, I am honoured to serve our community by ensuring individuals and families in need have access to nutritious food. My role involves organizing food distributions, working with our amazing volunteers, and building strong relationships with local donors and businesses. Witnessing the generosity of our town and the impact of our services inspires me every day. Together, we are making a difference—one meal at a time!
The Ethical Foodbanking Code
Food Banks Canada, its Members (provincial associations), Affiliate Member food banks and associated agencies believe that everyone in Canada has the right to physical and economic access, at all times, to sufficient, safe and nutritious food which meets their dietary needs and food preferences.
As an Affiliate Member of Food Banks Canada, The Helping Hand Food Bank will:
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Provide food and other assistance to those needing help regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, citizenship, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, income source, age or mental or physical ability.
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Treat all those who access services with the utmost dignity and respect.
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Implement best practices in the proper and safe storage and handling of food.
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Respect the privacy of those served, and will maintain the confidentiality of personal information.
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Not sell donated food.
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Acquire and share food in a spirit of cooperation with other food banks and food programs.
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Strive to make the public aware of the existence of hunger, and of the factors that contribute to it.
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Recognize that food banks are not a viable long-term response to hunger, and devote part of their activities to reducing the need for food assistance.
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Represent accurately, honestly and completely their respective mission and activities to the larger community.