Summer isn't a time when people think about the needs of the New Westminster Food Bank, but demand doesn't wane for those in need.
With higher food costs, more families are using the food bank and Mona Forsyth, coordinator of the New Westminster Food Bank said there is always an increased demand for food items in the summer because school is out and children no longer have access to breakfast or lunch programs.
"A number of factors have joined together to create an increasingly worrisome situation where the food bank needs all the help we can get," Forsyth said in a press release. "We are seeing a big increase in homeless people and families. These people need cans with a flip top because they do not have access to a can opener."
Riding in to the rescue is Mike McKee, general manager of Moonrakers Pub at 525 Seventh St.
On Thursday Aug. 25, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the pub will donate $3 from every meal sold to the local food bank depot. They will also match every canned food item donated at the pub that day.
In addition, the pub will begin to build its Christmas spirit by decorating the entire premises with Christmas ornaments and lights.
"There will be Christmas music playing and Santa Claus might even stop by," said McKee in a press release. "We're looking to inspire people with a summer sense of Christmas goodwill. ... It doesn't take too much effort to drop off a canned item and enjoy a little Christmas spirit in August at the pub."
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