A Lloydminster food bank is hoping residents can help fill their shelves as they anticipate an increase of people using their services.
The Olive Tree is looking for donations of canned beans, meats and stew, pasta sauce, rice, peanut butter and other non-perishable foods. Executive Director Becky Schille says while the organization has a good amount stocked at the moment, they are being cautious about what’s ahead.
“We’re hoping that it’s not needed in the weeks to come but we’re concerned that a lot of people spent their savings to purchase groceries in that initial panic. Our concern is as the resources start to run out or if people have been laid off and all of that comes together. We won’t see that need increase significantly. We are being cautious and we are preparing for a worst case scenario hoping that it won’t happen.”
The Olive Tree has made changes to their community meal program which is now offered in takeout containers. The changes were made to lower the risk of COVID-19 spreading to the city’s vulnerable population.
“The community has really come through on the margarine containers but we’re giving out up to 100 meals Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights. We go through quite a bit so don’t stop with the containers and grocery bags which are still highly needed.”
Schille says they are also taking in monetary donations if people don’t have the extra resources. Donations can be dropped off at the Olive Tree from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
“Give us a call when you get here or knock on the door. We’re limiting contact and being careful. We have it set up so that we don’t have to get too close.”
She says staff are being cautious and continue to sanitize the space multiple times every day.
“Thank you to the community for the support that we always get. We feel blessed to be able to be here and serve. We hope to be able to continue that through this entire COVID-19 situation.”