Cranbrook food bank releases holiday wish list as seasonal demand rises

With the holidays fast approaching, the Cranbrook Food Bank is asking the community to donate non-perishable food items.

The organization says it currently spends more than $20,000 per month in order to meet community needs.

According to the Food Bank, demand typically increases during the holiday season, and donated supplies are not keeping pace.

The organization also notes that its funding comes solely from community donations and grants, rather than provincial or federal government programs.

To help guide donations, the Food Bank has released a Holiday Wish List, which includes:

• Canned soups

• Cereal

• Peanut butter

• Pasta and sauce

• Canned vegetables and tomatoes

• Packaged meals

• School snacks

• Small bags of flour and sugar

• Canned protein items

• Ground coffee and tea bags

Donations can be dropped off at the Food Bank on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Collection bins are also available at local grocery stores including Safeway, Save-On-Foods, and Superstore.

An upcoming community event is also supporting the Food Bank.

The Cranbrook Community Theatre will host the El Camino Slideshow on Wednesday, Nov. 26.

The event runs from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and features local residents sharing their experiences walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes in Spain.

Admission is by donation, with both cash and non-perishable food items accepted.

Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.