Help wanted: Calgary Food Bank seeks more volunteers
The Calgary Food Bank has no shortage of food on its shelves right now but what it does need, however, is volunteers.
"We are great for food and funds, the community is so generous," says Shawna Ogsten, spokesperson for the Calgary Food Bank, "but we really need the bodies on the ground to help us deliver the food."
Ogsten says the new year brings busy months for the food bank, even after the holiday rush.
"We always see a continued stream in January and February," she said. "Hunger doesn't go away after Christmas, unfortunately expenses are still carrying on."
Even as demand keeps growing, the pandemic is putting a strain on resources.
The food bank depends on volunteers to operate and many of them are stuck at home, isolating because of COVID-19.
Normally, the bank is able to hand out 500 food hampers a day. Right now, that number is closer to 400 because of a staff shortage.
Jenna Holloway, a University of Calgary student, volunteers at the food bank every weekend. She hopes more people will join her.
"I really wanted to give back to the community, especially in the middle of the pandemic," she said. "It's so rewarding, especially coming here and seeing all the people that need the support."
Right now, the food bank is increasing its operating hours because of high demand.
It is now open on Saturdays, as well as the rest of the week, for hamper distribution.
It's also extending its hours on Friday for people who need to pick up food later in the day.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Grandparents killed in wrong-way crash on Hwy. 401 identified
A 60-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman killed in a wrong-way crash on Highway 401 earlier this week have been identified by the Consulate General of India in Toronto.
Police arrest 3 Indian nationals in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – as authorities continue investigating potential connections to the Indian government.
Suter scores late goal, clinches series for Canucks
Pius Suter scored with 1:39 left and the Vancouver Canucks advanced to the second round of the NHL playoffs with a 1-0 victory over the Nashville Predators on Friday night in Game 6.
TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst
TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.
Quebec man who threatened Trudeau, Legault online sentenced to 20 months in jail
A Quebec man who pleaded guilty to threatening Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier François Legault has been sentenced to 20 months in jail.
Human remains found in rural Sask. possibly a decade old, RCMP say
RCMP say human remains found in a rural area in central Saskatchewan may have been there for a decade or more.
Britney Spears 'home and safe' after paramedics responded to an incident at the Chateau Marmont, source tells CNN
A source close to singer Britney Spears tells CNN that the pop star is 'home and safe' after she had a 'major fight' with her boyfriend on Wednesday night at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood.
Canadian doctor concerned new weight-loss drug Wegovy may be used inappropriately
As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.
Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'
Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.