Food insecurity is a challenge for many community members in good times. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is an added barrier for individuals relying on supportive housing programs operated by the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin.
A $20,000 emergency food aid grant through the federal government’s Local Food Infrastructure Fund will allow the YWCA to distribute food hampers and gift cards to clients in need over the next 2 months, explains Lindsay Rice, Director of Services and Community Development.
Other beneficiaries include Youth Homelessness Protocol and Youth in Transition clients. Rice says they are seeing more youth experiencing homelessness at this time due to increased family conflicts. This is leading to more young people seeking safe housing.
