A staggering reality faces our region: food bank usage has reached unprecedented levels. Here in Fredericton, Greener Village served over 6,600 clients in a single month last year, including nearly 2,000 children. This isn't just a statistic – these are our neighbors, coworkers, and friends.
The Changing Face of Food Insecurity
"The face of hunger has changed dramatically," shares Alex Boyd, CEO of Greener Village. "We're seeing working families, seniors, and students who simply can't make ends meet despite doing everything right." With inflation hitting grocery prices particularly hard, many Atlantic Canadians are facing impossible choices between paying rent, utilities, or putting food on the table.
In New Brunswick alone, food bank usage increased by over 40% in the past year. More troubling still, nearly one-third of food bank users are children.
More Than Just Food
Greener Village, formerly the Fredericton Food Bank, represents a revolutionary approach to addressing food insecurity. "We don't want to just feed people today," Boyd explains. "We want to help create lasting change in their lives."
This transformation goes far beyond traditional food bank services. Their comprehensive approach includes:
Community gardens and greenhouses where clients learn to grow their own food, Teaching kitchens offering practical cooking and nutrition education, A clothing boutique providing professional attire for job interviews, Educational programs teaching budgeting and meal planning.
Breaking the Cycle
What makes Greener Village's approach so effective is its focus on dignity and empowerment. "When someone walks through our doors, they're not just getting a food hamper," Boyd emphasizes. "They're becoming part of a community that believes in their potential."
The impact of this approach is evident in the stories of transformation. One client recently shared: "I hadn't needed support from Greener Village for quite a while. I've been sober for several months, secured a steady job, and now I donate whenever I can because I know how much even a single box of Kraft Dinner can matter when someone is struggling."
The Growing Need
The reality is sobering: demand for food bank services continues to rise across Eastern Canada. In 2023, Greener Village provided nearly 200,000 meals through their various programs. That's an average of 16,500 meals every month – and the numbers keep growing.
This increasing need reflects broader societal challenges:
Rising housing costs
Stagnant wages
Inflation outpacing income growth
The ongoing impact of economic uncertainty
Community Solutions
The good news is that communities are stepping up. Local businesses, churches, and individuals are joining forces to support organizations like Greener Village in innovative ways. Every donation, volunteer hour, and awareness-raising effort makes a difference.
Making an Impact
Whether you need help or want to give help, here's how to get involved:
Need Assistance? Visit Greener Village at 686 Riverside Drive, Fredericton Food Bank Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-3pm (closed 12:00-12:30 for lunch) Call: 506-459-7461
Want to Help?
Visit joyfm.ca/impact to join our movement supporting local organizations
Become a monthly donor to Joy 96.5 and help us raise awareness for needs and celebrate impact in our community
Volunteer your time and skills
Share this message to raise awareness
Remember, food insecurity isn't just about hunger – it's about community, dignity, and hope. When we support organizations like Greener Village, we're not just feeding people; we're investing in our community's future.
Let's work together to ensure no one in our community goes hungry. Visit joyfm.ca/impact today to learn how you can be part of raising awareness and having an impact.
Because everyone deserves not just food on their table, but hope for tomorrow.
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