The Fort St John Women’s Resource Society is asking residents of the city to drop off food items as their shelves are being visited by double the amount of people compared to this time last year.
Fort St John’s women’s society represents women, girls, and low-income people of all genders, their goal is to improve the quality of life for the city’s residents. They said the growing need for access to their services is making it difficult for their usual inventory to suffice.
“We had 13,215 visits in 2023, and that jumped to 15,274 in 2024. Based on current patterns, we’re on track to surpass even last year’s numbers,” said Estefania Albornoz, the manager of fundraising and community engagement at the women’s resource society.
She said the weekly tables at the city’s Save-On-Food location is one strategy they employ in the summer to combat the usual seasonal shortages, but this year, the demand is too high.
Goods collected at the tables are brought to the society-run Outreach Store, which is adjoined to the Healing Place. The store also offers people in need free clothing, household and hygiene products, and other necessities.
Now, as the Outreach Store’s food section becomes barren, the society is reaching out and asking residents who can afford to give for donations of fresh or non-perishable foods.
“What’s especially telling is that some of the individuals now seeking help are people who used to donate,” said Albornoz. “Rising grocery prices and broader economic pressures are clearly playing a role in shifting needs within our community.”
A list of specific items requested by the society is available, Albornoz said the list is based on seasonal needs, as well as client requests, and what tends to be taken the quickest – it included granola bars, powdered milk, and oatmeal. Canned meats and veggies, as well as other canned items like baked beans and chilli, are also in-demand – fresh food donations are also welcome albeit uncommon.
“While some needs shift with the seasons, especially for non-food items, the demand for core food staples remains steady year-round,” she explained.
People who want to donate other goods are welcome and encouraged to by the society, but Albornoz said food donations are a priority for the group.
“Right now, the most urgent need is food. It’s consistently the most requested and fastest-moving category. While we currently have a good supply of hygiene items and clothing, non-perishable food donations are especially appreciated at this time,” she said.
Residents who are interesting in giving back by donating to the Fort St John Women’s Resource Society can drop off items at the back door of their 96 Avenue location. Drop-offs are accepted from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays.
