MLAs Anderson and Conroy say funds for food banks in the Kootenays will support people in need
NELSON – Local New Democrat MLAs say that funding distributed to local food banks and food security programs across B.C. will help support people in need in the Kootenays.
“It’s important that people in our region know they have somewhere they can turn if they run into challenging times,” said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Nelson-Creston. “Our local food banks do great work, but they can’t do it all alone, and this investment will help their efforts go further.”
In August 2023, the province announced $15 million in funding for Food Banks BC to help people in B.C. access nutritious food in their communities. This funding was then distributed by Food Banks BC to local organizations.
“People in the Kootenays are committed to taking care of one another, especially at this time of year,” said Katrine Conroy, MLA for Kootenay West. “Our government is working to make life more affordable for every family, while supporting the vital work that community organizations are doing on the ground to care for our neighbours.”
In the Kootenays, the following organizations received funding:
- Creston Valley Gleaners Society – $15,000
- Community Harvest Food Bank (Castlegar) – $9,000
- W.E. Graham Community Service Society (Slocan) – $7,500
- The Salvation Army Nelson Community Church – $6,000
- The Salvation Army Trail Community Ministries – $6,000
- NKLCSS Kaslo Food Hub – $6,000
- Salmo Community Services – $5,000
- Arrow & Slocan Lakes Community Services (Nakusp) – $5,000
- New Denver Food Bank – $5,000
This funding is an investment to support food banks in B.C., and was part of a larger $200 million announced in the spring for work to strengthen the food supply, increase availability of fresh food, encourage food production in remote areas, strengthen food infrastructure, and create more regional food hubs.
Funding for these local organizations helps them to have a direct impact on their communities, and be able to choose how best to serve people in need. This funding is key in regions like the Kootenays where food insecurity has risen due to global inflation, and emergencies have interrupted supply chains and food production.
Learn More: news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023SDPR0051-001338