Chatsworth's food bank becomes an election issue
Every council candidate was asked how they would support Chatsworth Community Outreach. Here's how the volunteer program works and how to help.
By David Ellis · · 2 min read
When residents drew up questions for this month's all-candidates meeting in Williamsford, one was about Chatsworth Community Outreach, the volunteer-run program that provides food assistance in the township.
All nine candidates were asked how they would support the program, according to the Owen Sound Current's report on the Oct. 6 meeting. The Current reported that candidates' answers ranged from offering space and help with costs to recruiting volunteers and connecting residents with county and provincial programs. Several candidates said the program needs more space and more volunteers. The Banner has not yet confirmed those needs with the program.
A long history
The program has deep roots. In 2022, United Way Bruce Grey wrote that "for more than fifty years" the group "has had a unique and interesting history of community service" in Chatsworth. It published a profile written by Faye Phinney, then the organization's secretary.
How it works
Chatsworth Community Outreach runs its food bank out of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 149 McNabb St., in Chatsworth, according to its listing in the Ontario Health atHome services directory (thehealthline.ca), last updated in June. The service is free, and it is for people and families in need who live in Chatsworth.
According to that listing, people registering will need income and expense information and proof that they live in the township.
Published listings give different days for food distribution, so the Banner recommends calling ahead. The township's list of clubs and organizations gives the program's number as 226-917-2040, with April as the contact.
How to help
The same listing says the program accepts financial donations by e-transfer to ccofoodbank@gmail.com, or by mail to Chatsworth Outreach, PO Box 278, Chatsworth, ON N0H 1G0. People who want to donate fresh food are asked to call ahead.
Province-wide food drive
Food insecurity is a concern across the region. On Saturday, Oct. 3, Grey Bruce OPP auxiliary officers collected non-perishable food, diapers and baby supplies for local food banks as part of Operation Full Plate, a province-wide OPP initiative, according to a report by Midwestern Newspapers/CKNewsToday. Drop-off points were at Foodland stores in Lion's Head and Dundalk.
If you volunteer there or have used the service and would like to share your story, we'd like to hear from you at news@chatsworthbanner.ca.
Your turn: What would help your neighbours most when it comes to putting food on the table? Email news@chatsworthbanner.ca or use the tip form on our site.
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