CKUA approaches this holiday season with immense gratitude for the generosity and community spirit that our listeners have shown over the past year.
We know that this is a challenging time for many people. And we know first-hand the impact that community support has.
If you can, please consider making a donation to your local food bank this season. In small towns and big cities throughout the province, food banks provide for people in need. From all of us at CKUA, thank you.
The Food Bank
The Food Banks Canada network is made up of Provincial Associations and their approximately 650 affiliated food banks. The COVID-19 pandemic is an evolving situation. Please use their food bank finder to locate your local food bank to contact them and see what their capabilities and needs are at present. Thank you for your patience as all regions are reacting as needed, given the current restrictions and situations.
Provincial Food Banks
Food Banks Alberta is the provincial association of food banks in Alberta with a mission to strengthen the impact of the provincial food bank network by creating new opportunities, increasing knowledge, providing resources, and delivering innovative programs. They seed connections for positive social change and are composed of a strong-network of 98 member food banks across Alberta.
Edmonton Food Bank
The Edmonton Food Bank is in it to create a community where no one goes hungry. Your gifts of food, time and money will make a difference. Need Help? Request food, find discount groceries or connect to community resources.
Calgary Food Bank
There are many ways to help the Calgary Food Bank by donating food, funds or hosting an event. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Calgary Food Bank as well. Are you in need of food support? The Calgary Food Bank is here to help you and your family.
What to donate
Most food banks have specific items that they are in need of on a regular basis. These items can be perishable or non-perishable products, as well as non-food items. Learn more about donations here. Find your local Foodbank here.
Additional Resources
The Salvation Army
From food hampers to helping put toys and clothes under the tree, The Salvation Army is providing practical assistance to those in need this Christmas.
The Mental Health Foundation
The Mental Health Foundation is dedicated to building better mental health and mental health care for people in Alberta. They do this through raising, managing and distributing funds to support ground-breaking education and programs, cutting-edge research, next generation technologies, and facility enhancements within the addiction and mental health care system.
Check out their text4hope tool for supporting mental health and wellness in a time of stress and isolation. Learn how to donate or find a community event to support here.
Alberta Health Services
From workshops on Stress Management to Employment Loss, Alberta Health Services has a comprehensive resource page here. Individuals and families can also access emergency shelters and temporary housing when facing family violence, domestic violence or homelessness.