Waterloo's fire chief Richard Hepditch says he and his family relied on the food bank while growing up in Waterloo Region.

Hepditch spoke with Craig Norris during CBC Kitchener-Waterloo's special Sounds of the Season broadcast Friday to benefit The Food Bank of Waterloo Region.

“You realize as an adult why I have so much gratitude and why I am so grateful and why I entered into the public service. It’s because I was supported by communities in communities and organizations such as the food bank,” said Hepditch.

According to the food bank, 37 per cent of people who access its services are children, and for nearly a decade Hepditch was one of them.

He says it took time for him to feel comfortable coming forward with his story, but when he realized he could help raise awareness for the food bank, he knew he needed to share his experience.

"I think I just started reflecting more on how fortunate I am to have people who support me. Oftentimes strangers. And that's what it takes to sustain food donation," said Heptditch.

“It’s a challenge to talk about in some respects, but I’m very grateful.”