The Sylvan Lake Food Bank has seen a greater need for its service in recent months and will increase its hours as a result.
As of Nov. 13, the new operating hours for client pickup at the food bank will be Mondays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The increase comes due to an overwhelming increase in demand, director Janet Griffith said.
“The demand on us is getting too great for just being open Wednesday alone.”
There are a couple of reasons demand has gone up, she added.
“Finances, (the) influx of new people coming into the area needing food, immigrants, children, seniors they just always seem to be short at the end of the month and groceries seem to be the thing that gets slashed.”
Individuals are also able to register for a hamper by calling 403-887-4534 and leaving a message with their name and phone number.
The food bank would also like to remind people the items in the foyer are for clients to supplement their hamper, Griffith said.
“The need is great in our community right now. Please limit yourself to a few items, and remember that others will be coming after you that should also have access to some additional items.”
The top 10 non-perishable food items in high demand at the food bank includes soups, canned fruits/vegetables, canned beans, canned fish/meats, rice, pasta, pasta sauce, peanut butter, Mac and Cheese and cereal.
More information on the food bank and its most needed items list is available on the Sylvan Lake Community Food Bank Facebook page.