Since the pandemic began, the Red Deer Food Bank Society has seen the generous side of Red Deer. Donations have been coming in regularly preparing the organization for an incoming wave of need in the community.  

“We are expecting to see an increase in clients just because those funding avenues are changing and people are not going to have the same avenues as before. We will be seeing an increase and we will need to accept more donations to keep up with that demand,” said Alice Kolisnyk, Deputy Director of the Red Deer Food Bank Society.

Already the organization has begun to see an increase in those making use of the food bank. Earlier on in the year, she put out a request for food and she said the community responded very well to that call for help.

“The community has been very generous this year with donations whether it's food or money. They've stepped up to the plate as usual and are providing very generously,” said Kolisnyk.

 As the food bank prepares for Thanksgiving they will be accepting different items in the coming couple of days. If you’re willing to purchase an extra turkey, they will be happy to accept it for someone in need.

“People are always looking for turkeys. We are able to accept turkeys. We do have freezer space. If people were inclined to donate turkeys, they can drop it off at our warehouse,” explained Kolisnyk.

The food bank also has the capacity to take in fresh vegetables and perishable donations that might pair well with a Thanksgiving meal.

Additionally this year, instead of their annual food drive, the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints in Red Deer will be collecting online monetary donations for the food bank.