The Cambridge Self-Help Food Bank has been chosen as Central’s “local” mission project. The Food Bank reflects a common theme with our national and international projects i.e. helping to eliminate child poverty and improving their education. We strongly believe the Food Bank will offer opportunities for a variety of ages in our congregation to serve the community, giving time, sharing talents and financial giving, being mindful of our roof and other financial commitments. It will allow us to partner with a well-organized and well-respected community organization and “open our doors” more to the community. This year we will begin several initiatives to support the Food Bank.

 

DID YOU KNOW ……….

           

            Between 2008 and 2011 the demand seen at food banks nationally has risen 26% as a result of the global recession that began in 2008. In Cambridge alone, a community of ~130,000, the Food Bank meets a real and immediate need supporting ~1400 families as well as providing food to ~22 organizations.

 

DID YOU KNOW ……….

 

The Cambridge Self-help Food Bank is one of 3 in Canada that is more than a food bank for low-income individuals and families. A wide variety of programs are offered encouraging clients to be active contributors to their Food Bank. The Food Co-operative Program provides groceries but also provides many opportunities for development of life skills, self-reliance and personal growth.

 

DID YOU KNOW ……….

 

Several members of your Missions and Outreach Committee have taken a tour of the Food Bank and were impressed with the variety of programs offered. Here are some examples but the list is by no means complete:  a craft program, Books for Bookworms for school age children, multi-faith pastoral care, employment and personal counseling, gently used clothing program, nutrition workshops to make baby food and well-balanced meals on a budget, emergency hamper program, community gardening, mentor programs, backpacks for school program, and legal clinic.

 

 

DID YOU KNOW ……….      

 

            Youth 14+ can volunteer their 40 hours of community service at the Food Bank.

 

DID YOU KNOW ……….

 

            We are inviting a representative from the Food Bank to speak to the congregation in the fall.

 

DID YOU KNOW ……….

 

            After committee members had a tour and met with a representative from the Food Bank, some ideas were suggested to us as to how Central might contribute. Two of these ideas were knitting gifts for young children and mothers with babies and stocking important items that are in high demand (e.g. peanut butter).