Temporary processes now in place for Food Bank, ReUseIt, ReBuildIt Centres
Whistler, British Columbia, March 17, 2020 – Many community members in Whistler are facing immediate changes in their employment amid the COVID-19 virus measures to suspend and close several operations across the resort. As a result, the Whistler Community Services Society (WCSS), which operates Whistler’s Food Bank, is preparing for an unprecedented demand from those experiencing sudden food insecurity. To respond to these emergency requests, WCSS has modified typical procedures to streamline the collection and distribution of donations and food to those who need it most.
“We understand these are challenging times for all community members and we ask you to help us look out for our friends and neighbours. The Whistler Community Services Society will continue to operate our Food Bank and Outreach Services on Nesters Road, while the ReUseIt and ReBuildIt Centres will close temporarily.” Lori Pyne, acting executive director of WCSS also notes: “For those who are experiencing food insecurity, prepared food bags are available from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday to Saturday from our location at 8000 Nesters Road. Please contact our Outreach Services team at mywcss.org to find out what other services are available to support you.”
How to Donate to the Whistler Food Bank
The Whistler Food Bank is asking the community for donations of cash and food to support the increased demand. These donations are vital as the Whistler Food Bank does not receive funding from government to operate. Monetary donations help the Food Bank to purchase whatever is most needed at a wholesale price. Online donations are eligible for a tax receipt and can be made at mywcss.org/get-involved/donations/. Food donations can be dropped off at donation bins at all grocery stores in Whistler. The most needed items include:
- Canned food rich in protein: tuna/salmon, canned
- meat, beans and legumes
- Canned vegetables and fruit
- Canned soups
- Cereal and granola bars
- Dried beans and legumes
- Peanut butter
- Rice, Pasta and Pasta Sauce
Business owners with large or fresh food donations are asked to contact foodbank@mywcss.org.
Update on Donations for ReUseIt or ReBuildIt Centres
To focus all efforts on the Food Bank and maintain a safe working environment, the ReUseIt Centre on Nesters Road is no longer accepting items for donation at this time. Seasonal workers who are leaving Whistler can donate gently used clothing and household items at the ReBuildIt Centre blue bins in Function Junction for the time being.
This service will continue in a reduced capacity in an effort to divert useful items from landfill and restock the ReUseIt and ReBuildIt Centres when they reopen. Locals are asked to keep their donations for a later date.
How to Contact Outreach Services for Support
Understanding how stressful these times are with food and financial insecurity, social distancing and quarantine, WCSS Outreach Services are operating 6 days a week and can be accessed remotely via telephone at 604-932- 0113 or through online booking at mywcss.org. WCSS has trained its outreach workers and front line staff to advocate for the community’s wellness needs and direct clients to a range of social and financial services.
For more information, please contact:
Lori Pyne, Acting Executive Director
Whistler Community Services Society
Tel: (604)932-0113 | Email: info@mywcss.org