Wood Buffalo Food Bank’s 26th annual Syncrude Food Drive was a success.
While the food bank fell short of its $350,000 and 80,000 lb. goals, it wasn’t far off.
Dan Edwards, executive director of the food bank said they expected numbers to be lower this year.
“We decided not to increase our goals this year, considering how much this community has been through, and we are so grateful of what we received. Our only concern is the demand for need remains high, and we see a challenging year ahead to keep up. However, Fort McMurray surprised us yet again, and even with so many going through tough times, we saw so much giving.”
Edwards said the economic decline and job loss has created a higher demand for the food bank.
Together the Corporate Challenge and the food drive brought in $276,827.82 and 75,836 lb. of food.
Anna Noble, communications and development manager said there were 450 volunteers for this year’s food drive, nearly 200 less than last year.
“We realize our volunteer base in the community is exhausted, and we appreciate those who came forward and gave their time when we were in urgent need. We could not have run this Food Drive without them.”
Edwards added that even though there were fewer volunteers, all volunteer slots ended up filled.
Overall, the Syncrude Food Bank Drive, along with funds raised during the Corporate Challenge are expected to help those in need until April or May.
