FORT ST. JOHN -- A new research study by the Salvation Army is shedding light on food insecurity across the province, with the problem acutely felt in Fort St. John.
“There was 16,000 visits to the foodbank just last year in Fort St. John—now we’re anticipating that doubling, so there will be an increased need for funding and support,” Patricia Budgell, Salvation Army FSJ Christmas Coordinator, told CJDC-TV.
The charity's Canadian Poverty and Socioeconomic Analysis highlights an increase in people using food banks, with 52 per cent of people surveyed in B.C. having trouble putting food on the table. This marks a four-point increase from last year.
According to the report, 58 per cent of Canadians surveyed accessed services for the first time, with the majority visiting food banks one to three times a month. Parents of young children are being hit hardest by food-related challenges, according to the Salvation Army.
“There has been a lot of new faces coming in,” said Budgell, “Obviously, there has been a lot of industry shut down in the last little while in northern B.C., so that makes a hard time for everybody, especially transitioning between jobs.”
The study, conducted from September 6-12, 2024, with a sample of 1,509 Canadians from the online Angus Reid Forum, precedes the launch of the annual Christmas Kettle Campaign. The Fort St. John branch has set a goal of raising $150,000 this year to benefit the local community.
“It’s an incredible feat but we do have a lot of support,” said Budgell, who adds the volunteer teams behind the campaign play a crucial role in helping people in the community.
The city’s Salvation Army branch is appealing for volunteers interested in standing at the kettles this holiday season, launching an initiative with the local business community to help fill the nearly 1200 available shifts.
Those who have employees volunteer for a minimum of three consecutive shifts can benefit with free advertising on a banner that will be displayed beside the kettle for the duration of the shift.
“It's a great way for groups to come out and get engaged in the Christmas season and spread some Christmas cheer, and just be involved in helping support the community,” said Budgell.
The kettles, moving away from the traditional cash donations with tap features ranging from five to 20 dollars. Last year, the Fort St. John campaign raised nearly $160,000, shattering its goal of $135,000.
Food donations are also being accepted, with Budgell saying there remains a strong need for meats, canned goods, cereals, and snacks for kids.
“Wild game is accepted as long as it's butchered by one of the local registered butchers,” said Budgell.
The campaign runs from November 14th up until Christmas Eve.
