Community Food Basket of Saint John Inc

The Community Food Basket of Saint John Inc, also known as the Saint John Community Food Basket, is a significant Canadian nonprofit organization based in Saint John, New Brunswick. It was established in 1984 by four dedicated individuals and serves as a key distribution center for other local food banks.

History and Mission

This organization was the first food bank in Saint John and has grown significantly over the years, involving more than sixty people in its operations. The mission of the Community Food Basket is to provide food assistance to inner-city families and individuals who struggle to purchase enough food. Despite initial expectations, the demand for its services has not decreased over time, necessitating a move to a larger facility to accommodate this need and continue distributing supplies to other food banks.

Operations and Impact

The organization operates on a client choice model, allowing recipients to select their food items according to their household size. Approximately 70% of the food stock is purchased using donated funds and grants, while the remainder is obtained through donations. A team of volunteers plays a crucial role in maintaining the inventory, dedicating over 220 hours of service per month. In 2016, the food bank served over 600 individuals monthly, including about 400 adults and 200 children.

Donations and Community Support

Recently, the Community Food Basket received significant support from local entities, such as a $2,000 donation from Port Saint John. Such contributions are vital in helping the organization continue its mission to support those in need within the Saint John community.