The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the Mustard Seed in an effort to spread the word about the need to invest in the well-being of vulnerable residents as pressure continues to mount on food banks in the region.
Mustard Seed executive director Treska Watson noted in a news release that food donations slow down significantly in the summer, which leaves food bank shelves "dangerously low."
She said their goal is to raise both funds and canned goods to ensure that "no family goes hungry this summer."
“Business people are incredibly compassionate and committed to improving the quality of life for others,” noted Bruce Williams, CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, in a news release. “Speaking with chamber members daily, I’m amazed at how supportive businesses are of others even though they receive constant appeals for help. We’re asking our business community to raise awareness about this issue so that those in a position to invest in this solution are aware of the need.”
The chamber says they survey their membership annually to help stay current and understand advocacy priorities for local businesses. Awareness of food security challenges facing the region has increased in recent years. They also say local businesses are concerned about affordability issues facing many customers and employees, as well as the need to support people facing challenges that can lead to social instability.
The Mustard Seed’s summer campaign, called “Hunger Doesn't Go on Vacation. Neither Do We," will roll out over the summer and they hope to raise awareness of hunger throughout the South Island, including areas served by other food banks that are also facing increased demand.
Businesses who would like to get involved can call The Mustard Seed at 778-677-1335 or email volunteer@mustardseed.ca and they can drop off signage and instructions at the individual business.
