FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“Food, not waste” food rescue grocery store opening this week
Brandon, MB – New grocery store for low-income individuals, and those concerned about environmental sustainability. The Food Rescue Grocery Store accepts donations from producers, processors, and food rescue organizations that meet and follow health and food safety regulations. They have a goal of rescuing 100,000 pounds of food this year. The store accepts debit or cash transactions, and proceeds will go towards the store’s continued operation. They will open their doors this coming Wednesday, December 15, 2021, at the Blue Door Project in downtown Brandon.
The issue of food insecurity is an income issue that affects 14.4% of Manitobans. Because lack of financial resources is the root of the issue, this problem won’t be solved by giving people food. Food security, as defined by the 5 A’s, means that food is available, accessible, adequate, acceptable, and ensures agency. At the same time, research undertaken by Second Harvest Food Rescue shows that in Canada 11.2 metric tonnes of edible food are going into the landfill every year, with an estimated value of 49.46 billion dollars.
“At the foundation of the Food Rescue Grocery Store is a philosophy of respect for people, the environment, and the food itself. We’re supporting our community by lowering financial barriers, providing agency, or choice in individual food selection, and ensuring equitable participation. So everyone can choose when they would like to shop during our set store hours. They can shop just like you would at a regular grocery store and then they can purchase those items with dignity,” says Olivia Boyce, Chair of the Brandon Food Council.
The Food Rescue Store is a partnership project developed by the Brandon Food Council, John Howard Society, and Prairie Oasis Seniors Centre. The idea was developed to distribute rescued food received over and above what can be used in Everyone Eats Brandon and Meals on Wheels Brandon.
https://www.foodrescuegrocery.com/
Contacts
Brandon Food Council Olivia Boyce 204-724-3311
John Howard Society Ross Robinson 204-727-1696 ext. 3
