The local Food Bank wants the town to know it's fully-stocked and available to assist those in need.
The Salvation Army Collingwood Community Church offers several services to the community, including a thrift store, church services, community dinners and cooking classes, among others. In the midst of COVID-19, the majority of these programs have been closed or cancelled, but the food bank remains fully operational.
“At this moment we are appropriately stocked as we go through this crisis,” says Major Neil Evenden, the core officer of Collingwood’s Salvation Army. “We are blessed in this community that we have a great relationship with a number of partners who continue to supply us.”
In the past few days, ongoing partnerships with churches and other establishments such as Sobeys, Metro, and Freshco, as well as donations from local restaurants and kind members of the community, the Food Bank is currently “overflowing” with supplies.
“We heard rumours that one Salvation Army was out of food, but that’s nowhere near true for us here in Collingwood,” Evenden continues. “We have a significant supply of food and financial resources that will be able to keep us going for a significant period of time.”
That being said, Evenden says the food bank is always accepting donations, but encourages monetary contributions and supplies as an alternative.
“We never say no, even when the place looks like it does,” he laughs.
Evenden encourages anyone who may need assistance to reach out and make an appointment. The Salvation Army still has its full team onboard, and even the thrift store staff — who are no longer able to work retail — have given their time to assist the food bank.
“We realize we are a vital part of the community for those who are the most disadvantaged and we are doing everything we can,” says Evenden. “We know there are a lot of people who were employed at those restaurants and tourist areas who are now unemployed. It may not happen today or tomorrow but maybe a month from now, they find things tight.”
The staff are committed to being socially responsible as well in order to continue to serve the community in the midst of COVID-19.
“We are doing everything we can to keep the place hygienic and safe and make sure there are only a few people in one place at the same time,” says Evenden. “We have a great team, great volunteers, and we are well supported by our headquarters in providing us with updates and information.”
To inquire about assistance or to book an appointment with the food bank, call (705) 445-9222.
