The Blind River Food Bank is still open to serve Blind River and area residents coping with food insecurity, especially during the COVID-19 emergency.
The food bank, located at 65 Youngfox Rd., serves clients on Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. It will continue to do so until further notice.
Recently, new procedures were implemented to ensure the safety of clients and volunteers. Clients are now being served individually at the entrance to the building where they receive prepared bags of non-perishable food according to household size. Perishable food items, such as milk, bread, eggs and frozen products, are packaged and distributed to clients at the time of service.
“The registration process for new users has been simplified, enabling them to receive assistance as quickly as possible,” said food bank committee chairman Steven Wells. “Monthly visits by registered clients are also being recorded more efficiently for the duration of the pandemic.”
The number of volunteers working at the food bank on Thursdays has been reduced so that staff can serve clients while maintaining social distancing. Volunteers adhere to public health guidelines by wearing gloves, using hand sanitizer and washing hands frequently.
Tables and countertops in the work area are cleaned frequently and thoroughly. While packaging food, volunteers also follow the latest public health guidelines.
The Blind River Food Bank receives regular COVID-19 updates from Feed Ontario, the provincial food bank association, Wells said.
“By participating in webinars hosted by Feed Ontario, the Blind River Food Bank has been able to engage with other food banks throughout the province and keep informed about ongoing developments during this crisis.”
The yard sale remains closed to shoppers. Donations of used household items are not being accepted until further notice.
“Please do not leave items at the door,” Wells said.
For more information, contact Wells at 705-576-2077.