Loaves and Fishes Summer 2021 Newsletter

Hello Saint Columba's Anglican-United Church!

We hope you all have enjoyed your summer and that this letter finds you doing well. As the weather cools down and we begin to focus on the fall, we have been reflecting on the many challenges that we have faced and were able to turn into improvements within our operations.

We have brought back the client choice “shopping model” at our Farquhar Depot and have decided to further maintain our drive through system as well. We implemented the drive through as a COVID-19 safety precaution but due to the popularity of this service, it will continue to function as a convenience for our clients. Additionally, our Cedar depot at St. Phillip Anglican Church has reopened with a new appointment based system. This will add a more streamlined, and personalized experience for the people we serve there.

Our weekly free food delivery continues to bring between 5,000 - 7,000 pounds of food alternating Wednesdays to our food bank in Port Hardy, of which your help is essential and appreciated, and to Port McNeil. The food we provide in Port McNeil is spread to several other non-profit organizations, schools and Indigenous Communities also serving the North Island.

 So far from January through July 2021, we have sourced and distributed 1,699,541 pounds of good food valued at $4,418,807 to individuals through our depot networks and to over 100 other non-profits, food banks, schools and Indigenous Communities across Vancouver Island.

 This would not be possible without your support and for that we are truly thankful.

Wishing you a delightful fall season and you will hear from us again soon.

Gratefully yours,