Food bank CEO hopes to never hear ‘record-breaking’ again

When it comes to food insecurity locally, the big story last year was the fact 1 in 8 households in Waterloo Region needed food assistance in 2024.

That represents a massive increase of 150 per cent over 2022.

The year end numbers from the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, shows food hamper visits rose by 24 per cent. That’s over 558,000 visits. But, in a press release the food bank said the most concerning number was the more than 8,400 new households that accessed food assistance for the first time, a 12 per cent increase.

Last year proved to be a record-breaking year for demand in Waterloo Region. Food bank CEO, Kim Wilhelm said she hopes she never has to hear the words “record-breaking” ever again.

Wilhelm told The Mike Farwell Show, the outlook for 2025 shows, that likely won’t be the case.

“It’s really going to be difficult to predict with certainty but based on what we’re seeing in the current trends, we anticipate that food assistance needs will continue to trend upwards,” she said. “These economic pressures we’ve been seeing are ongoing challenges and we don’t see any short-term end of that in sight.”

Wilhelm said the organization has set out clear objectives with one taking precedence.

“Our goal, ultimately, is to ensure everyone in our community, if and when they need food, receives it.”

Wilhelm said raising awareness about their efforts and the severity of food insecurity in the region will also be a main focus this year.

A $1.5 million boost to the food bank’s annual funding was announced by the Region of Waterloo in December. Although the food bank had asked for $2 million, the money will still go a long way in the organizations efforts.

“This increase allows us to continue meeting the growing demand for support and our network, the community food assistance network, remains equipped to respond to those needs,” she said.

Wilhelm added that 90 per cent of that funding goes directly to the food assistance network with the remaining 10 per cent staying with the food bank. In the end, Wilhelm believes the community will continue to rally around their neighbours in need by keep the food bank staffed and the shelves stocked.

“Waterloo Region is a unique but absolutely incredible community. That communities generosity is truly unmatched and that’s what makes this region so special.”