Poverty Awareness in York Region

Link to report on Welfare 2006
http://www.ncwcnbes.net/

Dear York Region Food Network Supporter

Re: Food Bank Use in York Region

In 2005, eight food banks operated across York Region. The earliest began operations twenty years ago as a temporary measure to address the growing issue of food insecurity in the Region. To meet the growing demand however, the eighth food bank, the King Township Food Bank, began operations in January 2005. In addition, a number of faith groups and local agencies within York Region also provide limited emergency food relief by operating community meal programs, offering food vouchers, and maintaining emergency pantries.

The York Region Food Network, working with York Region Health Services, tracks the utilization of seven of the eight York Region community food banks on a monthly and annual basis. The attached report reflects the utilization of these food banks. We regret that, once again, Vaughan Food Pantry has declined to participate in the collection of regional statistics.

The total number of clients fed by food banks in York Region increased 38% between 2001 and 2005, and a further rise is projected. However, collections from food drives in the Region continue to decline. The Spring 2006 food drive gathered 73,100 pounds, 15% less then the 90,000 pounds sought. Because families with children are a major beneficiary of food bank services in York Region, it follows that an increasing number of children, and their parents, will go hungry in this summer, as the food banks run out of supplies.

Food banks, apparently, are here to stay and food insecurity is a growing issue in York Region. I ask that you review and bring this report to the attention of York Region residents as soon as possible. It is imperative that we find the means to eliminate food insecurity, and to feed all York Region residents.

Elizabeth Brims
Executive Director
YRFN - the voice of hunger in York Region

In 2005, York Region food banks fed 46,575 people;
20,900 were children.

For more info visit us at www.yrfn.ca

194 Eagle Street
Newmarket ON L3Y 1J6
(p) 905-967-0428
(f) 905-967-0097
email: yrfn@bellnet.ca
http://www.yrfn.ca/