The winter chill has settled over Tillsonburg, and inside the Helping Hand Food Bank, Joan Clarkson sorts through nearly empty shelves with growing concern. “We’re seeing more families than ever,” she tells me during my visit last Tuesday, her voice steady despite the worry lines creasing her forehead. “Last month alone, we served 427 households – that’s over 1,000 individuals counting on us.”
The Helping Hand Food Bank has been a community lifeline since 1985, but volunteers report unprecedented demand heading into the holiday season. Their reserves are dwindling precisely when they’re needed most.
“Many of our regular donors are feeling the pinch themselves,” explains Mike Henderson, the food bank’s treasurer, pointing to a storage room that would normally be packed with non-perishables this time of year. “Grocery prices have jumped nearly 11% since last year according to Statistics Canada. People who once donated are now struggling to feed their own families.”
The situation mirrors what I’ve observed across Oxford County, where affordability concerns have transcended urban-rural divides. For Tillsonburg, a community of roughly 17,000 residents, the challenge has special dimensions – a growing senior population on fixed incomes and young families attracted by more affordable housing but still facing transportation costs to jobs elsewhere.
Sandy Wilson, who coordinates volunteer efforts, describes what she calls “the new food bank client” – people with jobs who simply can’t stretch their paycheques far enough. “We’re seeing folks who’ve never needed help before. Teachers, healthcare workers, small business owners – it breaks your heart when someone apologizes for needing a food hamper.”
The food bank is requesting specific items: peanut butter, canned vegetables, pasta sauce, cereal, and canned meat or fish. These staples form the foundation of the emergency food packages distributed weekly. Cash donations are equally welcome, as the organization can leverage purchasing agreements with local grocers to maximize buying power.
Town councillor Melissa Davis highlights how the issue connects to broader community challenges. “The housing shortage has driven up rental costs dramatically. When families are paying 60% of their income on housing, something has to give. Unfortunately, that often means food insecurity.”
Ontario’s Association of Food Banks’ recent hunger report confirms this isn’t isolated to Tillsonburg. Their data shows a 42% increase in food bank usage across the province compared to pre-pandemic levels. Rural communities like ours are particularly vulnerable due to fewer employment options and limited public transportation.
Tim Haines has farmed just outside Tillsonburg for three decades. This year, he’s organized fellow farmers to donate fresh produce directly. “Food shouldn’t be a luxury item,” he tells me while unloading crates of carrots and potatoes. “We’re growing enough, but getting it to the right people at prices they can afford – that’s where the system’s breaking down.”
Community response has begun to build. Annandale School’s annual food drive launched early this year, with principal Kathy Mitchell challenging students to fill 200 boxes. Local businesses like Johnson’s Hardware and Tillsonburg Automotive have set up collection bins. The Legion Branch 153 has pledged to match the first $5,000 in monetary donations before December 15th.
“The generosity of Tillsonburg always amazes me,” says Clarkson. “People step up when they understand the need. That’s why talking about this matters – many don’t realize how serious the situation has become.”
For those looking to help, donations can be dropped off at the Helping Hand Food Bank on Bidwell Street Tuesday through Friday between 9 a.m. and noon. After-hours donations can be left at collection points at Zehrs, Metro, and the town library. E-transfers are accepted through the food bank’s website, with volunteers emphasizing that even $20 can provide emergency meals for a family of four.
