Sask. Government helps food banks with $2M over two years

Food Banks of Saskatchewan is getting a multi-million-dollar boost from the provincial government.

The provincial government is giving the organization $2 million over the next two years in order to help Saskatchewan families and food banks, which have been struggling with high food costs.

Food Banks of Saskatchewan will receive half of the money in August, with a second $1 million grant coming the following year. The money will be distributed to food banks around the province based on population and average usage numbers.

Michael Kincade, executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan, said high costs mean more clients are coming through the doors of food banks, and it’s harder than ever to keep the shelves stocked.

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“Saskatchewan Food Banks have had their busiest year yet, making it challenging to build up sufficient food reserves,” Kincade said in a statement.

“Inflation continues to accelerate, seriously impacting hunger and food insecurity, not only with low-income households, but even those in higher income brackets. With demand increasing and donations decreasing, this help comes at a critical time to help us feed our friends, neighbours, and families.”

Gene Makowsky, Saskatchewan’s social services minister, said the province “continues to be one of the most affordable places in Canada to live, work and raise a family,” but he noted that the rising cost of food has created challenges.

“Since the provincial budget was announced in March, the cost of food has continued to increase,” Makowsky said in a statement.

“This funding to Food Banks of Saskatchewan is an additional affordability measure from our government to help families and individuals manage rising daily living costs due to inflation.”