Usage of the Good Food Box handed out by the Nanaimo Foodshare increased 400 per cent since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. (Spencer Sterritt/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Spencer Sterritt

longstanding issue

Independent council eyed for helping vulnerable Nanaimo people struggling with food security

Oct 3, 2020 | 7:41 AM

NANAIMO — A new council specifically focused on food security and ensuring people don’t go to bed hungry is expected to be created in Nanaimo.

The City’s health and housing task force unanimously endorsed creating the council on Thursday, Oct. 1. The council would develop a food strategy plan to create long-term food security for vulnerable populations, including struggling families and those without a permanent residence.

Social planner Karin Kronstal said food security was an issue brought to the forefront by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Individuals who would not necessarily feel comfortable going outside their homes relied more on agencies, who in turn became more dependent on the food bank to access resources. Larger agencies who use the food bank used it more.”

Since the beginning of the pandemic, use of the Good Food Box program provided by Nanaimo Foodshare increased 400 per cent.

off the schedule

BC Ferries preemptively cancels early Saturday sailings

1h ago

firm handshake

B.C. NDP government, Greens reach 'shared priorities' agreement

3h ago

young volunteers

'Make a big difference:' Nanaimo volunteers collecting warm clothing for those in need

5h ago

Meal service at the Salvation Army doubled and the organization stopped charging a few dollars for each meal. Kronstal said the Salvation Army indicated it doesn’t plan to resume charging for food handed out.

Data from the Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District showed the number of students needing food support grew by 50 per cent to nearly 1,000.

Kronstal said gaps in service highlighted by the pandemic included a lack of meals available on weekends to those experiencing homelessness.

Nanaimo councillor Don Bonner said while there’s lots of food available in Nanaimo, preserving and preparing it can be an issue.

“Salvation Army mentioned the needed more refrigeration facilities, the same thing with the 710 Club. I think there’s an opportunity here to look at how we store, collect and distribute food.”

A recommendation will now go to Nanaimo councillors to approve the creation of the Nanaimo Food Policy Council, which is expected to pass.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @SpencerSterritt