Word that the Fort Frances Salvation Army, United Native Friendship Centre, and Sunset Country Métis have begun to better co-ordinate the food bank services they offer to local residents is welcome news—and long overdue.
The food banks provide an essential service to those less fortunate and our community has been generous over the years—particularly during the Christmas season—in helping keep their shelves stocked.
But while district residents always have stepped to the plate to help their fellow citizens, it’s vexing to see that some people have been abusing the service, apparently making the rounds to the three food banks on a regular basis as if they are their personal supermarkets.
This so-called “double-dipping” takes away from others who are in need and, frankly, is an affront to those who donate so selflessly to the food banks.
The problem may not be rampant but clearly it was serious enough to catch the eye of those at the Salvation Army, UNFC, and Sunset Country Métis—so much so that they’re now working together to make their service more efficient while better protecting it from fraudulent abuse by a few.
They deserve kudos for recognizing the problem and taking the necessary action to rectify it.
While the need for food banks always has been there, usage is on the rise—no doubt a reflection of the current economic realities facing the district.
Which is why it’s all the more important to ensure the integrity of the service and its purpose: as a short-term hand-up for those in need, or families facing an unexpected emergency, until they can get back on their feet.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
