Both the Lethbridge and Interfaith food banks are seeing more and more people asking for help.
Typically, there will be a dip in demand following Christmas.
But this year, that wasn’t the case.
“Normally, we see our numbers come down slightly after Christmas, and we have not seen that this year. We’re still serving approximately 950 households each month, about 2,500 individuals every month,” said Danielle McIntyre, executive director of the Lethbridge Interfaith Food Bank.
More people needing help even after the holidays is concerning.
But the food banks and other organizations are doing all they can to keep up with demand.
“Last year in 2024, we gave out over 9,500 food hampers, which was up from the year before, and that was up from the year before. So, it’s an increased need that we are all experiencing,” said Lethbridge Food Bank executive director Valerie Lazicki.
While Christmas was busy as ever, it also came with added stress.
The Canada Post workers' strike made it difficult to receive Christmas donations.
But despite some donations coming in late, the food banks were still able to reach their fundraising goals.
“Better late than never, which is our motto here all of the time. We’re grateful for the support that we receive. No matter when it does come in,” said McIntyre.
The spring usually sees a slowdown in donations following Christmas campaigns.
Charities are urging people to donate outside of the holidays because the need doesn’t go away.
“The need always is there. And we do hope that the community remembers us when they are thinking about donating to a worthy cause in the community. In January alone, we’ve had 34 new clients sign up for food hampers,” said Lazicki.
