Fall Drive raises over 633,000 lbs of food but short on cash donations

TORONTO , Oct. 26 /CNW/ - Over 633,000 lbs of food was donated during Daily Bread Food Bank's Fall Drive -- beating the original goal of 500,000 lbs by 133,000 lbs. Financial donations, although matching what was raised in last year's Fall Drive, remained low with approximately $324,000 raised.

Despite Daily Bread's success in surpassing its Fall Drive food goal, member agencies continue to report an increase in client visits. Daily Bread executive director Gail Nyberg is concerned about being able to meet the growing needs of food bank clients. "It is great news that we surpassed our food goal especially considering the difficult year it has been. Food bank usage is up across the province and that is not good news for us," said Nyberg. "I cannot stress enough the importance of financial donations to Daily Bread Food Bank. Those donations mean we can purchase food in greater amounts at a lower cost." Financial donations also allow Daily Bread to ensure a consistent supply of the most needed items such as baby formula, or to purchase perishable items such as meat, dairy or fresh vegetables.

"This economy has affected every one, most of all our clients and it is only through donations that we can continue fighting hunger," said Nyberg. "We are truly grateful to Toronto Fire Services, Metro and the public for their generous and ongoing support." Although the Fall Drive is over, donations are always welcome. Individuals wishing to donate food or financial donations can find out how at www.dailybread.ca.

Daily Bread Food Bank is a non-profit, charitable organization that is fighting to end hunger in our communities. In 2008, Daily Bread raised $317,000 during the Fall Drive. Last year, there were over a million client visits to food banks across the GTA. Daily Bread serves the majority of these people through neighbourhood food banks and meal programs in its 171 member agencies. Daily Bread Food Bank fights hunger by providing food and resources for hungry people; mobilizing greater community support and creating social change through research, education and advocacy.

For further information: Sarah Anderson, Communications & Marketing Officer, T: [phone] ext. 238, E: [email protected], M: [phone]