Katerinich said the value of the products provided to customers was about more than $1.2 million, down from $1.4 million the previous year, and she credited the community for helping them get so many products to customers.
“We certainly had to significantly reduce our grocery packs last summer because of food shortages,” she said.
“That speaks to why so much food was not distributed and more had to be purchased, because the $1.2 million doesn't include anything that we purchased,” Katerinich added, noting that Christmas food packs, grocery packs and Milk for Kids programs make up the amount of food distributed to the community.
When it comes to donations flowing into food banks, there is only one time of year they focus on.
“I only go out at Christmas,” she said of the Empty Stockings Fund campaign.
Katerinich said that although they hang bags on the door asking for increased donations and appear on television to talk about the group's needs, their biggest — and only — outreach happens during the holidays.
“I don't want to cause any trouble for these people,” she said.
“It's a hassle over Christmas but outside of that if people want to donate that's great and if they need help they'll ask,” the chief executive added, saying he knew how often other organisations and businesses were asked to help.
Meanwhile, Katerinich honoured around 15 volunteers – two of whom were recognised for their years of service – who he said dedicated around 4,477 hours to helping clients, including 1,249 households. Now the team is looking towards next year, and the executive director said one area they would like to focus on more is the lasagna garden project.
“We would like to get more of our clients involved in volunteering and learning about different other gardening methods,” she said in an effort to give clients autonomy and encourage them to grow fresh food over the summer.
Now they are addressing the immediate needs of their customers.
“Rent, food prices and especially for people who are surviving on the (Saskatchewan Income Support Payment), it's tough,” she said.
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JuliaLovettSquires@pattisonmedia.com
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