In a year marked by a surge of food insecurity, Lake Country Food Bank stands as a beacon of hope, tripling its service to those in need. We’ve gone beyond our role as a traditional food bank and have evolved into a comprehensive food distribution hub, fostering nutrition and breaking down barriers in collaboration with schools and the community. Amidst challenges, partnerships and cross-sector collaboration remain the linchpin, emphasizing our collective strength to make a meaningful difference in our communities.
The Helping Through Sharing Network, a collaboration that began by partnering with Cherryville Food Bank, has blossomed into a dynamic alliance of 17 food banks and over 35 organizations, salvaging surplus food that would otherwise go to waste. The addition of Food-It-Forward as a vital distribution partner further solidified the network’s commitment to alleviating food insecurity and creating meaningful impact.
Beyond conventional channels, the network actively engages in food recovery initiatives and intercepting goods before they reach landfills. Through partnerships with local farmers, orchardists, food producers and food distributors, Lake Country Food Bank ensures that rescued food reaches those who need it most. Sysco Kelowna continues to play a crucial role with weekly contributions of surplus food and providing free transportation of perishables from the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. This partnership underscores the network’s commitment to sustainable practices and efficient food distribution.
2023 saw the expansion of the network with outreach to Indigenous partners. We also strategically placed Community Fridges in schools, a community center, and the Alliance Church providing accessible food beyond regular hours of the food bank.
Partnerships and collaboration across sectors are key to this work. We’re grateful to those who have and continue to play an active role. We’re stronger when we work together. We’re able to create greater impact and ensure that healthy, nutritious food is reaching anyone who may need a helping hand.