Port Cares is marking its 40th anniversary with a campaign aimed at helping families facing food insecurity across Port Colborne and Wainfleet. The organization is hoping to collect 40-thousand pounds of food, or the equivalent in monetary donations, over the next several months to support its food bank, hot meal program, school lunch kits and senior food deliveries. Executive Director Chandra Hardeen says demand for food assistance continues to grow as rising costs place more pressure on households across Niagara.
Hardeen says many of the people using Port Cares programs are families, seniors and working individuals who are struggling to keep up with everyday expenses like groceries and transportation costs. She says the organization is also preparing for additional financial strain tied to higher fuel prices and continued inflation. The campaign goal of 40-thousand pounds of food could help sustain Port Cares programming for several months.
Port Cares is encouraging residents to donate non-perishable food items, with a focus on healthier options such as canned fruits, beans, legumes and canned meats. Monetary donations are also being accepted, with the organization noting it can stretch financial contributions further through bulk purchasing power. Donations can be made online through the Port Cares website or dropped off in person at the organization’s Charlotte Street location in Port Colborne. (Written by: Matt Latour)