Need for food bank donations reaches all-time high in Waterloo region

The number of new households needing food assistance in the region has jumped by 113 per cent in just a year, according to a new Community Impact Report released by the Food Bank of Waterloo Region.

Over 30 per cent of the people surveyed also said they didn't have money to buy food — even though they are currently employed or receiving some type of government assistance.

"Something must change," Kim Wilhelm, interim CEO of The Food Bank of Waterloo Region, said in a news release.

"We need strong public policies on social assistance, living wages, and affordable housing to improve the incomes of those living in food-insecure households."

Over 58,600 adults, children, and seniors accessed food assistance this year, equalling a 45 per cent increase compared to data from the Food Bank's previous report.

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To keep up with the growing demand, the food bank says it distributed 7.2 million pounds (over 3.2 million kilograms) of food from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023.

Their list of most needed food donations currently includes items such as canned fruit and vegetables, dry beans, pasta and rice.

They're also looking for unopened bags of pet food and non-food items like personal-care products, hygiene products and cleaning supplies.

Monetary donations are also welcome. Each dollar donated helps fund two meals at the food bank.