Nearly 20% of people in Manitoba have to deal with food insecurity and wonder where their next meal will come from.
In Canada, nearly one in four people don't know where their next meal is coming from. Several factors contribute to these numbers: rent is going up, grocery store prices are skyrocketing, and daily life is getting more expensive.
That's where the Dauphin & District Food Bank comes in. The local Food Bank is busier than ever. Just a few years ago, Robin Gambler and her crew provided hampers to about 50 families. Today, that has doubled to more than 100 applicants every two weeks. Many of those applicants have a household of more than one.
The Food Bank in Dauphin serves more than 200 people every two weeks. Add that up over a month, and that's more than 400 people staying fed thanks to the Dauphin & District Food Bank.
"Many people don't realize how many people are struggling," said Gambler. "When they have three kids, paying high rent and utilities. Sometimes there is no money left for food. Many people rely on us."
Recently, the Manitoba Egg Farmers announced they're doubling their monthly contribution of eggs to Manitoba Harvest. The contribution is now 3,600 dozen or 45,000 eggs. Gambler says they don't receive any eggs from Harvest Manitoba. However, they do get about 10 dozen per month from Safeway. The cartons are cut in half and given to the families who need.
"We used to serve maybe 50 or 60 families, and now we're up to at least 100 every two weeks," continued Gambler. "Every intake we get five or six new people that have never come in the past."
Gambler says the Food Bank is still in search of a new home. Parkland Crossing has been sold, and while the Food Bank has been given an extension, they need to be out by the end of September. Gambler says they have been looking at some spots, however, nothing has stuck.
"We need at least 2,500 square feet," offered Gambler. "We prefer it to be in Dauphin because many of our clients walk."
For 23 years, Robin has been a cornerstone of the Dauphin Food Bank, offering not just food but compassion, warmth, and a listening ear. Known for her kindness and unwavering dedication, Robin says if you or your family are in need, the Dauphin Food Bank will be here for you.
"I find it very rewarding that we can help so many families," ended Gambler. "When we started, we were feeding 30 families a month. When we started to grow, we ended at Parkland Crossing."
If you know of a spot for the Dauphin Food Bank, call the Dauphin Friendship Centre at 638-5707. Ask for Robin.
