The Sacred Heart Food Bank in Port Lambton will soon have more space for donated products, thanks to a donation from the St. Clair Catholic District School Board (SCCDSB).
A portable from nearby Sacred Heart Catholic School was given to the food bank, to give them more storage capacity and improve accessibility.
Representatives from the school board recently met with Frank Johnston and Peter Bogaert, president and vice president of the Sacred Heart Food Bank, to oversee the portable’s preparation for relocation to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church property.
Johnston said the new facility will allow the food bank to store and distribute a wider variety of food items, including perishables, thanks to the installation of coolers and freezers.
He said this is crucial as the need for food bank services continues to grow every year.
"The new portable will vastly improve our storage conditions," said Johnston in a news release. "We’ve been using the basement of the Anglican Church for the better part of 10 years, and while we appreciate their partnership and support, this upgrade to a ground-level facility will eliminate the need for stairs and greatly enhance our operations."
Officials said the community’s ongoing support is crucial as the food bank transitions to its new home, ensuring that no household in the old Sombra Township area — north to Bickford Line, south to Whitebread Line, and east to Mandaumin Road — goes without the assistance they need.
SCCDSB Director of Education Scott Johnson also commented on the donation.
"This collaboration exemplifies the power of community," said Johnson. "By coming together, we are not only addressing immediate needs of the community but also building a foundation for long-term support and care. It’s inspiring to see how our collective efforts can make a tangible difference in people’s lives.”
The next steps include installing hydro, a wheelchair-accessible ramp, and a delivery deck.
It's hoped the portable is fully operational by November when an annual food drive is held.