MONCTON (GNB) – The provincial government has committed $2 million for the Food Depot Alimentaire in Moncton to assist with purchasing healthy food for distribution to food banks and soup kitchens across the province.
The funding is being provided in two installments; $1 million was provided before Christmas and the second $1 million will be provided in March.
“The Food Depot Alimentaire has played a vital role in providing help to those in need,” said Health Minister Bruce Fitch. “We know there is a high demand in the province and without their work it would be much more difficult for households who rely on food banks to feed themselves and their families.”
The charitable organization provides food to over 60 food banks across the province. In 2022, food banks and soup kitchens experienced an increase of more than 30 per cent in visits compared to 2021; between 25,000 and 30,000 visits every month. The increased demand is expected to continue in 2023 due to increasing food, fuel and housing costs.
“We appreciate the support the government has provided us during this difficult time of increased demand as we continue to help food banks across the province,” said Dale Hicks, president of Food Depot Alimentaire.
16-01-23