Canadian Blood Services and Food Banks B.C. are hoping their numbers get a shot in the arm this Christmas.
The holiday season makes way for the third annual “Bleed and Feed” initiative where the two entities look to the generosity of Greater Victorians to fill blood banks and food banks.
“It is a wonderful way that donors can give back on two levels that are not (just) financially based,” said Canadian Blood Services partnership specialist Catherine Sloot. “Most of us have a tin of this or a pack of that we can share to the less fortunate.”
From now until Jan. 2, Canadian Blood Services on Saanich Road will accept non-perishable food donations for the Mustard Seed food bank.
Sloot hopes the partnership draws new donors for both the food and blood banks at a time when many regular donors are busy or away.
Mustard Seed director of food services Brent Palmer is coping with the lowest stock levels in his 27 years at the food bank.
“It has been a struggle, we haven’t totally recovered from it. We have to make up for the months that this place was in pretty rough shape,” he said. “We are happy with any donations that come in here but people need to eat 365 days a year.”
He hopes their partnership helps make a difference for the more than 7,000 people the food bank helps during the Christmas season and throughout the year.
“(CBS) has quite an interest in what happens in the community. We are delighted we have developed that partnership. (We have) a commitment to feed 7,000. That is a huge family to feed,” he said. “Hunger eats away at your dignity, your pride and your hope. Believe me, your readers give us, and the people who require our services, hope and dignity.”
Non-perishable food donations can be dropped off at the Canadian Blood Services at 3449 Saanich Rd. until Jan. 2.
reporter@saanichnews.com
