The Wood Buffalo Food Bank (WBFB) purchased a new space to replace its previous downtown location.
Dan Edwards, WBFB Executive Director, said the larger building will allow for more storage room, and space to organize and run programs to better serve the community.
“It’s no secret that our community has endured many struggles for the better part of this last decade, and while we’ve continued to serve our region throughout this time it hasn’t come without some extra measures on our end. Up until the flood we were renting extra warehouse space in addition to our main building just so we could ensure enough stock on hand to provide hampers.”
Since 2013, the food bank saw a steady increase in clientele.
Edwards said the WBFB even required two sheds and two sea-cans at their old location.
Due to the April flood, the organization operated from two locations: One in Gregoire, and another temporary spot in Thickwood.
READ MORE: Wood Buffalo Food Bank prepares for rebuild
A virtual food drive in support of the WBFB raised more than $101,000.
RELATED: Virtual food drive brings in over $101-thousand for WBFB
The new large space will help cut down on additional costs of renting.
It can also serve other organizations that require a meeting room or a commercial kitchen.
Board Chair Dean Wilcox said the new location, which is in downtown Fort McMurray, will be far from their old one.
“We are truly excited to finally be moving forward with the purchase of our own building. This has been a goal for the organization for many years, and finally everything has fallen into place so that we can take that step. We can’t wait to show the community what an incredible space this will be for our clients, as well as our volunteers.”
The new operating space will be ready in the New Year.
The Syncrude Food Drive, which runs from Nov. 27-29, begins with the Corporate Challenge on Nov. 26.
READ MORE: Annual Syncrude Food Drive to go without volunteers this November
Residents looking for assistance, or to donate or volunteer may go to the Wood Buffalo Food Bank website and follow them on social media.
