Iqaluit’s volunteer run Niqinik Nuatsivik Nunavut Food Bank (NNNFB) is determined to stay open amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteers are now preparing food bags to distribute at Qajuqturvik Food Centre while adhering to social distancing rules.
Unlike before, people are no longer permitted to enter the food centre building, said Paul Diamond, chairperson of NNNFB.
“We don’t want to shut down,” said Diamond, adding that is why the food bank has resorted to giving out prepared food bags.
Over the past few weeks, there has been a decrease in the number of individuals seeking the help from the food bank. Usually there are over 100 people, but most recently there have been between 75 to 85 people coming to the food bank, explained Diamond.
Every second Saturday, the food bank volunteers will continue to hand out food in grocery bags at Qajuqturvik Food Centre. The next food distribution is planned for March 28, between 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
“We’re going to do our best to make sure that we keep our every second week distribution going as much as possible, without putting anyone at risk," said Diamond.