Grant Supports Storrington Township Food Bank

By Rev Mike Mundell

It is with great pride and genuine excitement that I write this follow-up report on behalf of our local rural food bank, nestled in the heart of Storrington Township—just 15 kilometers north of Kingston, Ontario. Our food bank serves as a vital lifeline for individuals and families in our community who are navigating financial hardship and food insecurity. Thanks to the support provided through the Casey & Beverly McKibbon Pastoral Development Award, we have been able to make meaningful strides in improving the quality of our offerings and uplifting the spirits of those who rely on us.

This grant has been a beacon of hope — not only in terms of financial assistance, but also in the affirmation it provides. It tells our volunteers, our recipients, and our broader community that their needs matter, that their dignity is worth protecting, and that there are compassionate individuals and organizations who believe in the power of local action.

One of the most immediate and tangible impacts of the award has been our ability to purchase fresh, perishable food items, including milk, butter, and eggs. While shelf-stable goods such as canned vegetables, pasta, rice, and boxed cereals are commonly donated and gratefully received, fresh items are rarely available in abundance. These items are essential to a balanced diet, yet they are often out of reach for families facing financial strain.

Our volunteers, too, have felt the impact. Being able to include fresh items has reinvigorated their sense of purpose and deepened their connection to the people we serve.

Beyond our regular operations, the award has also positioned us to enhance our seasonal outreach. Our annual Christmas food hamper initiative reflects the spirit of generosity, community, and celebration that defines the holiday season. Last December, we were able to distribute 32 nutritious and generous packages to families in need. Each hamper included a full array of groceries, a turkey for their holiday meal, and small gifts for every child in the household.

The preparation for this initiative is a labour of love. Volunteers spend weeks gathering items, organizing donations, wrapping gifts, and assembling the hampers with care. The goal is not only to provide food, but to create a moment of joy—a reminder that every family deserves to celebrate, to feel seen, and to experience the warmth of community. I have personally witnessed the emotional impact of these hampers. I’ve seen tears well up in the eyes of mothers and fathers as they open the packages, overwhelmed by the generosity and effort that went into making their holiday special. These are not just tears of gratitude—they are tears of relief, of hope, and of feeling valued.

It’s important to note that our food bank operates with a small but mighty team of volunteers. These individuals give their time, energy, and hearts to ensure that our operations run smoothly and that every recipient is treated with respect. They sort donations, manage inventory, and greet clients with warmth and discretion. Many of our volunteers are long-time residents of Storrington Township, and their commitment to their neighbours is unwavering.

The food bank is exploring partnerships with local farms and grocers. We’ve begun conversations about sourcing surplus produce, collaborating on donation drives, and creating a more sustainable pipeline for fresh food. These partnerships will not only enhance our offerings but also strengthen the fabric of our local economy and community. When businesses see that their contributions are valued and that they are part of a larger mission, they are more likely to engage and support our efforts. Looking ahead, we are hopeful and energized.

On behalf of our volunteers, our recipients, and the entire Storrington Township community, thank you to CSMC. We are honoured to be stewards of your gift, and we remain committed to using it wisely, effectively, and with the utmost care. I am so proud to tell people of our church without walls and the legacy of Casey and Beverley’s generosity of giving back. God is so wonderful and blesses us all with love and goodness.