By Angie Sullivan
Summer brings fun and freedom for many children, but it also means some will be losing access to meals provided at school.
The Georgina Food Pantry is launching a new campaign to help local families facing food insecurity when school meal programs pause for the season called “Hunger Doesn’t Take a Vacation.”
“While summer is often seen as a carefree season filled with vacations and family fun, the reality is very different for many households in our community,” said Kathryn Sim, executive director of the Georgina Food Pantry. “When school is out, many children lose access to breakfast, lunch, and snack programs they depend on throughout the year. Families are left trying to stretch already limited grocery budgets even further.”
The Georgina Food Pantry has seen a 23 per cent increase in the number of children accessing their services year over year. The goal is to raise $25,000 to help meet the growing demand for this summer alone.
This is the first time the organization has specifically focused on summer hunger. Kaitlyn St. Pierre, fundraising and communications specialist, said, “With grocery costs rising by four to six per cent over the past year alone, families are facing even greater financial strain, while food banks are experiencing increased pressure to meet growing community needs.”
The pantry is asking residents, local businesses, visitors and seasonal cottagers to support the campaign through monetary donations, business sponsorships, food drives and by sharing campaign messages in the community.
St. Pierre said that the items most needed are “Peanut butter, cereal, milk, eggs, yogurt, fruit and vegetables to ensure that children have access to nutritious food throughout the summer.”
“We are incredibly fortunate to be part of a vibrant and caring community,” Sim said. “We invite cottagers and summer visitors to support their neighbours in need and help make a meaningful difference close to home.”
Donations can be made online at georginafoodpantry.com or in person at the Georgina Food Pantry in Sutton.
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