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The cumulative economic impact of the pandemic is starting to be felt by Kelowna families.
When businesses closed in the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an immediate surge in demand for the services of the Central Okanagan Foodbank. Then the numbers plateaued.
Now, five months in, there is a new increase in the number of families looking for help.
"We're actually starting to see an uptick again," said the foodbank's Chief Development Officer, Tammie Watson, "more people are starting to come to us asking for help, registering as new clients."
But Watson is quick to say it's good that families are aware of the help that's available for them. "There's not a lot of people that are full time back to work, there might have been modified salaries for people that have gone back to work," she explained.
"Let us help you with your food," said Watson. "That's why we're here."
Despite the increasing use of the food bank, she doesn't want people to take that fact as a reason to stay away. "We are cautiously optimistic, and we have lots of food right now," said Watson.
But the organization will need support to increase along with the demand.
"We still do require and need community support."
Whether you need the help of the Foodbank or you want to support its efforts you can make contact at this link.
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