Oilfields Food Bank News

Contributed by Ida Wegelin, Oilfields Food Bank Chair
Oilfields Food Bank is now preparing for its annual Christmas Hamper Program. This year, basically, because of the increased usage, the increased price of food and the fact that we are coming into line with the Okotoks and High River Food Banks, we will be offering the makings of a full turkey dinner instead of a general hamper, to all registered participants. In order to register, those with children should register with Sue, FCSS co-ordinator, at the Town Office in Black Diamond (also your children will be registered for their “Santa Bags”/toys). Adults without children may register at the Food Bank (at the United Church in Turner Valley) any Tuesday between 1:00 and 3:00pm. Anyone needing a “turkey dinner” who is unable to register in person please call Wendy at 403-933-5859 or Sue at the Town Office in Black Diamond. Registration should be done as soon as possible – preferably before November 30th – in order to allow us to plan and purchase for the dinner hampers.
Regular hampers will be available for those who need them but we wish to remind folks that the Food Bank is an emergency food source. We are here to help those folks who experience a short term emergency. National Food Bank guidelines suggest that there should be no more than six (6) visits a year. If more visits are deemed necessary we hope to investigate the reason and assist in directing to other help.
Our communities of Black Diamond, Turner Valley, Longview, Millarville, Priddis and the MD surrounding those areas are extremely responsive and generous in that all donations of food and money to support our Food Bank come from our local and former residents. We thank all of you for your continued support. As alluded to the cost of operating our Food Bank is increasing – we often see 10 to 15 hamper recipients a week. The Firemen were out on their annual pickup blitz on the evenings of November 14th and 15th. Donations may be dropped off in the pick-up boxes throughout the community, dropped off at the Food Bank any Tuesday between 1:00 and 3:00pm and money donations may be mailed to Oilfields Food Bank, Box 1318, Turner Valley, AB, T0L 2A0.
We thank the many volunteers who in the past have come to help pack our Christmas hampers. This year we will not require that work force, so will be selecting packers. Again, thanks to all who have helped and are helping to support Oilfields Food Bank. Merry Christmas.