Looking Ahead to 2012

North York Harvest Food Bank enters 2012 realizing poor economic times will continue to hurt many vulnerable residents in the community, Anette Chawla said.

"In talking with our clients, we know that times are still tough. A grandmother living with her son and his family explains the difficulty of paying bills on part-time contract work. A single mom who recently lost her job is at her wit's end," she said.

"Our food bank volunteers tell us about the long lineups they've been noticing since the cold weather hit. Given current economic realities, it is clear that the need for food banks will not ease in the new year. In fact, we worry even greater numbers will come to our doors."

North York Harvest is northern Toronto's largest food bank, distributing more than 1.6 million pounds of food through 60 neighbourhood programs.

The food bank is not only concerned with putting food on the tables of its clients; it is also interested in helping to build strong communities, Chawla said.

"Strength comes in numbers, and, for North York Harvest, creating resilient neighbourhoods is as important as collecting canned goods," she said.

"Our pilot community advisory councils are a testimony to this. We've recognized that neighbourhood food banks need to be more connected with the areas they serve. The councils are comprised of an engaged group of residents, and help provide targeted support and outreach."

North York Harvest is committed to connecting with community members, Chawla said. "In health centre basements and high-rise meeting rooms, we listen to what people have to say about neighbourhood food access. From their words comes a clear picture of how to help," she said.

"Through our work on the ground, we've seen the power of food in building community. North York Harvest's new year resolution is to take this to the next level of engagement and we welcome you to join us."