The Dauphin Food Bank began operating in 2000.
25 years later, a group of dedicated volunteers continues to serve Dauphin and the surrounding area. And for the next several months, intakes will continue at Parkland Crossing. With the sale of that facility and ongoing renovations, Robin Gambler says they have been granted an extension as renovations have begun on the other side of the building.
So that means the Food Bank will continue at its current location at Parkland Crossing until June of next year.
"It's a big relief, we were worried. Originally, we were told we had to be out by September," said Gambler. "We were in a panic; we hadn't found a place. Now that we have this extension, we can thoroughly look instead of just moving into a place that wouldn't be perfect for us."
Gambler says the search for a building of at least 2,500 square feet continues. If you have a spot in mind, you can call Robin at 648-6828 or 638-5707.
In the meantime, as operations continue at Parkland Crossing, Robin says they're looking for donations of non-perishable food items.
"Soups, Kraft Dinner, macaroni, spaghetti, pork and beans," said Gambler. "We are very low on personal hygiene stuff right now, so that would work as well."
If you have a larger amount of donations, contact Robin, and she can meet you at the Food Bank. If you can put together a few bags, you can deliver them to Robin at the Food Bank. Gambler is very appreciative that so many Dauphinites have stepped up over the years.
"Dauphin is so generous, this is such a generous community," commented Gambler.
Robin is on the 10-person board for the Dauphin & District Food Bank. For her, helping the community has always been near and dear to her heart.
"By 2001, I was on the board. Seeing people who need food touched me," ended Gambler. "Being able to help them out and help those kids and single people who don't live on much. There are so many people struggling. Now it's even worse, so many working people are coming because they don't have enough money to feed their families. After all, rent and everything are so expensive."
The Dauphin & District Food Bank, here to serve you. The next intake is October 23. You'll need to bring photo ID, and it must show your current address. You can receive a hamper every four weeks.
