With the holidays just around the corner, most of us are anticipating sumptuous dinners with family and friends. It’s a time to indulge and to enjoy great food. But, unfortunately, not everyone is as fortunate as we are. The sad reality is that for many people, in our own community, a lavish holiday dinner is impossible. In fact, basic groceries are often out of reach.

Here are some startling statistics:

• 19,602 people access food banks every month in Hamilton, Ontario
• 8,313 of these people are children (44%)
• 42% are single parent families
• 32% are single individuals, often who have lost jobs or have minimum wage employment

The shocking truth is that many people each month have to make a choice between paying the rent and feeding their family. With homelessness as the alternative, they turn to food banks to survive. Once an occasional supplement, emergency food aid has become a necessity every month for many Hamiltonians.

How can that happen in our affluent society?

Don’t be fooled. While most of us feel the pinch of high prices, those with a low income are extremely vulnerable. An increase in utility bills, a plant closure, a rent hike – these can be disastrous for a low income family. Think of this – Canada Mortgage and Housing recommends that no more than 30% of income should toward housing costs; yet for single parents on a low wage, rent will account for 49-77% of their income. The result? People need food banks just to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table. The alternative for many is homelessness.

Fortunately, there is help.

While it’s grim to think of hunger being right in our own backyards, among our neighbours and friends, there is a service to help. Hamilton Food Share was started in 1990 to ease hunger in Hamilton and in 20 years has helped thousands augment their food sources with emergency support.

How does Hamilton Food Share work?

Hamilton Food Share provides food supplies and short-term storage to food banks and hot meal programs. Additionally, the organization establishes community partnerships, donor relations and fundraising activities that support food recovery operation. What’s more, by leveraging relationships and building ties to food suppliers, Hamilton Food Share is able to provide $5 in food for every $1 donated!

How can YOU help?

 It’s easy! Here are two ways you can make a positive impact:

1. Make a donation at any time to Hamilton Food Share. Visit hamiltonfoodshare.org for details.

2. From October 15 – November 2, Stoney Creek Furniture is proud to hold a Silent Auction with all proceeds going to Hamilton Food Share. Come into the store, see the amazing items on auction and place your bid – beds, desks, tables, chairs, accents and more. For more information, click here.

It’s a wonderful feeling to help others – and such a nice reward if you win at the silent auction and acquire a gorgeous piece of furniture. Please drop in. There is a great selection to bid on and you may find something very special for your home.

This holiday season, let’s be grateful for our many blessings.