'November was 2nd busiest month in 35 years': London Food Bank thankful for Business Cares Food Drive
CTV
The London Business Cares Food Drive couldn't have come at a more opportune time.
The London Business Cares Food Drive (LBCFD) couldn't have come at a more opportune time.
"At Wednesday's Food Bank board meeting we saw November's numbers and it's the second highest in our 35 year history," said Glen Pearson, the London Food Bank's co-executive director.
"We were all kind of shocked. We knew it was rising but it's risen now a lot and for Canada's largest food banks, their numbers have increased over 50 per cent during the pandemic. So I mean, this isn't something it's just a London problem, it's a Canadian problem." Pearson added.
This weekend, 30 stores in London, Ont. including 27 grocery stores, were packed with volunteers for the annual LCBFD Grocery Weekend.
"I've actually had to put out 30 more Gaylord's in the last two hours, that's how busy it's been," said LBCFD campaign chair Wayne Dunn.Shopper Tim Forrest arrived to purchase a bag of carrots, but instead bought and donated an entire cart of groceries.
"I run a small business and I see everybody out on the street corners this time of year hurting to get by and just wanting to do my part," explained Forrest.
Pearson feels the generosity of the thousands of people like Forrest is what allows them and other agencies to serve the growing clientele.
