After 17 years working in the food banking world, it is with mixed emotions that I submit my last newsletter message. I leave knowing that thanks to many hard working people who truly care, thousands of low income residents of Surrey receive the ‘hand-up’ they needed to cope with some difficult times.
Who are these people that I have met in my time at the Surrey Food Bank? People like you and I who want to live the best life possible for themselves and their families. They are people who are challenged with poor health or struggle with mental illness; those who have lost their jobs and simply don’t see hope for the future; children who did not choose to be born into poverty; seniors who not only worry about lack of food but live a lonely life without friends and family to support them. The people we help live in your neighbourhood and in your community. They lack enough money for the basics of life, lack affordable and safe housing and many can’t return to work due to the high cost of daycare. The one thing I have learned when meeting our clients is that they are very grateful for all of the help we offer, and they know how even more difficult their lives would be without our support. We offer hope for a better future.
In my career with the Surrey Food Bank I have also met those who believe in what we do, feel our passion and have tremendous trust and respect for our organization. These people are our donors who support us with volunteer time and donations of cash and food. Thousands of residents in Surrey, North Delta and from communities beyond, shower us with their gifts. Our signature fundraiser, Breakfast with the Bank is an amazing example of how the Surrey Food Bank engages the diversity of our community. Without our incredible supporters, we would not exist nor would we be able to do what we do for others.
I leave with immeasurable gratitude to each and every one of you.
Heartfelt thanks!
Marilyn Hermann
Executive Director, Surrey Food Bank