STF “Food to Learn” Campaign Raising Funds, Awareness With Food Banks of Saskatchewan

The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation is partnering with Food Banks of Saskatchewan for the “Food to Learn” campaign to raise funds for much-needed food bank services over the summer months. Children who rely on school nutrition programs during the school year do not have access to these programs in July and August, and approximately 40 percent of the people who access food bank services are youth under the age of 18. The STF is getting this campaign started with a donation of $20,000, towards a goal of $44,000 – a sum that represents the 44,000 people Food Banks of Saskatchewan serve each month.

“We want to raise awareness of the situation that many Saskatchewan families are facing,” says Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte. “We know how important access to nutritional food is for student learning. With food prices soaring and many students not having access to school nutrition programs over the summer, we are very grateful to partner with Food Banks of Saskatchewan and support their vital work in communities across the province.”

Members of the public are invited to give what they can. Donations can be made through the Food Banks of Saskatchewan website. These funds will be used to deliver critical services for students and families in Saskatchewan.

“Historically, the donations we receive slow down significantly over the summer months, but the number of people accessing our services remains high,” says Michael Kincade, executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan. “We have a real need for financial support this time of year, and we deeply appreciate the STF’s partnership, donation and willingness to help us get the word out about how many people rely on our services.”

Food Banks Canada and member food banks across the country are anticipating at least a 30 percent increase in food bank usage due to economic circumstances, including increased costs of inflation in food and other necessities. Last year, Food Banks of Saskatchewan saw a 37 percent increase in usage.