Local food bank calls for support this holiday season as demand increases  

Sophie Demers

Food banks across the region are working overtime to help local families and Le Grenier des Collines is no exception. The food bank covers the entirety of the Collines-de-L’Outaouais MRC, which covers many municipalities including La Pêche, Pontiac, Chelsea, Cantley, Val-des-Monts, Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette,  l'Ange-Gardien, and Denholm.  
 
This year they are feeling increased demands more than ever. The increased price of groceries means that even though some residents and families may have the same amount of funds but are now facing food insecurity.  
 
Rencently, Le Grenier des Collines launched a call to citizens for solidarity in order to create 450 Christmas baskets for those families and individuals in need this year. The food bank has approximately 1800 people that use their services and the demand is growing.  
 
“Currently, 33% of our clientele is employed, underlining the fact that food insecurity can affect anymore, including those who work. What’s more, we receive new requests every week, highlighting the growing need for food assistance in our community,” said Marie-Pier Chaput, Director General of Le Grenier des Collines.  
 
The organization is an essential service for many residents in the region. There are many ways to help and make a difference including donating non-perishable food, volunteering with the food bank or making a monetary donation.  
 
“Every gesture counts and together we can make the holidays brighter for those who need it the most,” said Chaput in a press release. She also thanked residents for their continued support.  
 
Financial donations can be made through the organization’s website or by emailing legrenierdescollines@bellnet.ca. Individuals interested in volunteering their time to the food bank can register on their website: https://legrenierdescollines.com/  
 
Non-perishable food donations can be dropped off at Le Grenier des Collines, which is located at 34, chemin de l'Église in Val-des-Mont.  
 
Established in 2007, Le Grenier des Collines has worked in the community to end hunger in the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais. Through their dedicated team and volunteers, they have helped thousands. The organization also runs an anti-waste fridge as well as a garden collective.  

 
Photo caption: Volunteers from Le Grenier des Collines participating in La guignolée des Médias, a fundraising event that supports local food bank programs and services.  
 
Photo credit: Courtesy of Le Grenier des Collines Facebook page