Impact Story: Feeding Our Community

Meeting the Need, Week After Week

The Westlock and District Food Bank has long been a steady presence in the region — offering reliable, respectful support to individuals and families facing food insecurity. Through its ongoing Food Hamper Program, the Food Bank distributed over 1,600 hampers in 2024, reaching nearly 4,000 people, including 1,250 children and 262 seniors.

Operating every Tuesday out of Memorial Hall, this volunteer-powered effort continues to respond to rising need in the community. Since 2021, the number of seniors accessing services has grown by 30%, and the number of children by 32% — trends that mirror what we’re seeing in the region more broadly. According to the Westlock Vital Signs report, 1 in 4 residents say they have a hard time affording the food they need.

A $25,000 Community Priorities Grant from the Westlock Community Foundation supported the Food Bank’s 2024 operations — one small part of a much larger effort made possible through dedicated volunteers, community partnerships, and generous local donors.

“Food costs continue to rise, and like many food banks, we’ve seen more people coming through the door,” says Executive Director Sharon Kennedy. “We’re focused on delivering healthy, high-quality food in a way that’s dependable.”

In a time of growing need, the Westlock and District Food Bank continues to lead with care, commitment, and community — one hamper at a time.