Kawartha Lakes Food Source Commemorates 20 Years of Service
On Saturday September 17th, members of the community, volunteers, staff, and elected officials gathered at the Kawartha Lakes Food Source distribution center to mark its 20th year of operations.
Rather than a celebration, the event was an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of countless contributors over the past two decades who are united in their mission to fight hunger in the City of Kawartha Lakes. Folks were able to look back at KLFS milestones and memorabilia in a “walk down memory lane.” Attendees were encouraged to reflect on the challenging times that many members of our community are facing following the multi-year pandemic and now rapidly rising inflation by participating in an interactive cost of living activity. The sorting station was open to those interested in getting a “behind the scenes” look at how donated food is readied for distribution to the community.
Heather Kirby moderated a panel about the state of food insecurity in CKL, featuring panelists Tracy Richardson, Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Ward 8, Amanda King, Directory of Network and Government Relations at Feed Ontario, and Mary-Lou Mills, Coordinator of children’s nutrition programming at SIRCH in Haliburton, ON. The discussion was wide-ranging and touched on systemic issues around affordability and government support shortfalls, efforts being made at a municipal level to address affordable housing shortages, and the role of non-governmental agencies in tackling poverty and food insecurity.
“It was so wonderful to see the community come out to honour the past twenty years of service by our organization. We hope that it was engaging and provided insight into our work and community.” says Executive Director Heather Kirby.
Some familiar faces from the early days of KLFS included Charlie Currie and Zita Devan and founding members and staff were acknowledged. Current board members including Rose Barg, Trina Connell, and Shannon Kuypers, rolled up their sleeves and joined forces with staff to facilitate the event. Representatives from member food banks and organizations were present to provide valuable community-specific perspectives to the event.
More information about the work being done by KLFS and how community members can get involved can be found at kawarthalakesfoodsource.com or call 705-324-0707.
