Renfrew and District Food Bank Volunteer Coordinator Nives MacLaren (MBC NEWS FILE PHOTO)
Stocking pantries for the neediest Renfrew-area families takes a small army of eager volunteers.
Nives MacLaren, volunteer coordinator for the Renfrew and District Food Bank, says anywhere from 80 to 90 active helpers currently donate their time to supporting efforts at the former church on Argyle St. South as the need for their services continues to grow rapidly within the community.
Every Tuesday, a team of 20 or more volunteers not only collects, warehouses, and stocks donations but also creates a welcoming shopping experience for clients, helping to ease the stigma for clients who may feel awkward about relying on the food bank.
MacLaren says having so many people interested in supporting the food bank is both a blessing and a massive undertaking, ensuring there are opportunities for everyone to contribute.
It’s an operation that leans heavily on the continued generosity of the broader community, even current clients who give back with time in the office or by other means.
Among the food bank’s most urgent needs are pick-up and delivery drivers and people to help with their Toys for the Few program, but MacLaren says anyone interested in lending their support can apply through their website.
(written by Kasey Egan)
