In the shadow of the Purcell Mountains, Golden’s Food Bank is taking a different approach to community giving this season, hoping to turn financial strain into a win-win for local families.
“We’ve seen a 34% increase in client visits since last fall,” explains Shelley Jackson, Executive Director of the Golden Food Bank, as she arranges donation boxes in their newly renovated intake area. “Rising housing costs are forcing more working families to choose between rent and groceries.”
The food bank’s spring fundraiser launched yesterday with their first-ever community 50/50 raffle, a departure from traditional food drives that Jackson says reflects changing needs in Golden’s support systems.
Provincial data backs up what Jackson is seeing firsthand. According to BC’s 2024 Food Security Report, rural communities have experienced the steepest rise in food bank usage across British Columbia, with mountain towns particularly affected as tourism-sector wages fail to keep pace with living costs.
Walking through their modest warehouse, Jackson points to partially empty shelves. “Winter donations carried us through, but we’re projecting a difficult summer ahead.”
The 50/50 raffle represents a strategic shift for the organization. Rather than solely asking for food donations, they’re seeking financial support that offers flexibility. Half the proceeds will support the food bank’s summer programming, while the winner receives the other half – potentially up to $10,000 if ticket sales reach their target.
Town Councillor Mark Isfeld, who volunteers monthly at the food bank, says the approach makes sense given Golden’s current economic reality. “We’re seeing folks who never imagined needing food support – seasonal workers, young families, even some seniors with fixed incomes.”
The fundraiser comes as Statistics Canada reports grocery prices in British Columbia rose approximately 5.8% over the past year, outpacing national averages and hitting hardest in communities where transportation adds additional costs to food delivery.
For longtime resident Carol Steinmann, the food bank offered crucial support after unexpected medical leave from her hospitality job last winter. “There’s this myth that only certain people use food banks. The truth is, it’s your neighbors, your coworkers – people you’d never expect.”
Steinmann now volunteers weekly and plans to buy several raffle tickets. “It’s my way of paying it forward.”
The food bank has partnered with several local businesses including Bacchus Books, Rockwater Grill, and Tributary Outfitters, who are selling tickets and displaying posters throughout town. Digital tickets are also available through the food bank’s website.
“Community response has been fantastic,” says Jackson. “Mount 7 Brewery has already committed to matching the first $2,500 in ticket sales.”
Beyond immediate hunger relief, funds will support the food bank’s expanding programs, including their summer lunch initiative for children and cooking workshops focused on stretching food budgets.
Food Banks Canada’s 2024 national survey indicates similar trends across rural communities, where approximately one in seven households now reports some level of food insecurity – the highest proportion in over a decade.
Leslie Hammond, Golden’s public health nutritionist, emphasizes that food security challenges reflect broader systemic issues. “When we see increased food bank usage, we’re really looking at housing affordability, employment stability, and inadequate social supports,” she explains. “The food bank provides crucial emergency assistance, but sustainable solutions require addressing these underlying factors.”
The 50/50 raffle runs until June 15th, with the draw scheduled during the town’s weekly farmers market – a symbolic choice that Jackson says celebrates local food systems.
Mayor Ron Oszust, who purchased the first ticket yesterday morning, encouraged residents to participate. “This fundraiser represents Golden at its best – neighbors helping neighbors through challenging times, with everyone having a chance to benefit.”
For longtime volunteer Darren Mills, who stocks shelves every Tuesday morning, the fundraiser highlights how the organization has evolved. “Years ago, we were mostly helping people in crisis situations. Today, we’re supporting families who work hard but simply can’t make ends meet in this economy.”
The Golden Food Bank serves approximately 230 households monthly, representing nearly 600 individuals – roughly 8% of the town’s population. Jackson expects those numbers to climb during shoulder season when tourism-related employment dips.
“Food security isn’t just about having enough to eat,” Jackson adds, locking up after a busy distribution day. “It’s about dignity, community resilience, and ensuring everyone has the nutrition they need to thrive.”
Tickets are available throughout town and online until June 15th. The winner will be announced on June 17th at the farmers market.
