The Elden of Bradford retirement home donated $5,000 to the Bradford Helping Hand Food Bank on Wednesday.
The money is much needed, said an appreciative Helping Hand's Executive Director Carolyn Khan, noting there are new families coming into the food bank each week and seeing nearly 1,000 clients each month.
"We appreciate the work you do," said the Director of Operations for the Elden David McEachern.
In December, the residents of the Elden hosted a food drive for Helping Hand and also donated funds to help fill the baskets for their Christmas Hamper program. They also contributed money towards the food bank's van, which has been vital in its collecting of food donations around the community.
General Manager of the Elden, Brigitte Blair says the retirement home plans to host another food drive and fundraiser in the near future.
"They (the residents) are excited to do it," said Blair.
The residents recently started working on their own community garden outside the residence, growing their own food.
"Maybe we can donate some vegetables too," said Blair. "It's a raised garden and they (the residents) are so excited to get out here and do that."
Khan, along with food bank President Cyndie Pasquarella and Coun. Jonathan Scott was thankful for the donation from The Elden.
"We appreciate you, and all the continued support," said Khan.
Established in 1991 and run by a team of dedicated volunteers, the food bank has become an integral part of the Bradford community helping to combat food insecurity.
The Bradford Helping Hand Food Bank is looking forward to moving into its new home at 177 Church St. later this year, as work gets underway to revamp the old Bradford Public School into a new community hub.
Donations to the food bank can be made via their website at www.bradfordfoodbank.ca or by calling at 905-775-2824. Cheques can also be sent to mailing address: Helping Hand Food Bank Inc, PO Box 1268, Bradford, ON L3Z 2B6.
