The Crossfield and Madden Food Bank has been open full-time now since January 1st, 2024, and it has been a busy journey ever since.
Angela Wigglesworth, the president of the food bank and co-founder, along with her sister Cheryl Longeway, explained that a lot has happened since the beginning.
"We opened it in response to community feedback that they loved receiving the wonderful Christmas hampers, but that they needed food all year round. We have become a society. Built an incredible board of directors. We are all volunteers. And we have just built up a volunteer base and engaged with our community in really meaningful ways."
She explained they have a number of different partnerships that help bring fresh food and produce into the food bank.
"We could not do this without the tremendous support of our communities, and we have had support in so many ways, from volunteers coming to help pack hampers and do food drives and run fundraisers to corporations that are donating monetary donations and large food donations."
With the food bank now being open for over a year, they are now members of Food Banks Alberta and Food Banks Canada.
"Frequently, we have individuals who are stepping up with donations. We had one foundation reach out to us, and they purchased 4-H beef and donated the entire animal to us."
Currently, the food bank gives out 25-30 hampers per month.
"On average, individuals who receive hampers range from single individuals to families of eight."
Every Thursday evening, the food bank opens its doors to allow anybody to top up their pantry.
"We've had feedback from quite a few people who come regularly that it is the difference between them needing a food hamper and not."
Wigglesworth also shared that they are trying to take over the snack attack program for the two Crossfield schools in September, which the Airdrie Food Banks has been doing for a while now.
"We're very excited to support our schools with ongoing snack and lunch supplies for the kids who come hungry."
For those who might need a hamper, are interested in donating to the food bank or want to learn more, click HERE. They also have several food drives on the way:
- Crossfield community wellness day on September 7.
- Community Fest on September 9.
- September 20 is the Crossfield food drive. Watch for bags on your door on September 19.
- Medieval dinner fundraiser on October 20. Tickets will be available through Eventbrite in early September.
"We can't say enough good things about our communities and all the ways that they help support the food bank."
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