Thanks to the Battlefords and surrounding area for all your support!
Thank you for your support to the Battlefords District Food & Resource Centre (BDFRC)AKA Empty Stocking Fund Inc. (ESF) in 2023. As a charity supporting the most vulnerable people in the Battlefords and surrounding area with no core funding,we rely heavily on fabulous donors such as yourselves.
This year,we helped around 2000 people a month through the food programs, 50% of those were children. Our goal is to provide a healthy well-rounded food hamper, which includes dairy, protein, fresh produce and a nonfood item; either a cleaner or hygiene product.
This year the Empty Stocking Fund distributed 405 Christmas Hampers over 5 days, helping almost 1200 people. Of those registered for the ESF Hamper, 48% were children who also received a gift.
Our Food for Kids program distributed between 120-140 bags of food per week for children throughout the school year. In the summer, we collaborated with Food Banks Canada and distributed 80 “After the Bell” food bags with fresh fruit to children for 8 weeks.
Through our Share the Warmth/Coats for Kids program, we distribute winter jackets to those who are not properly dressed. Even with the warmer weather, we have given out hundreds of coats, toques, mittens and scarves.
During tax season,we hold free income tax clinics for those who are low income. This past tax season we have completed over 400 income tax returns.
Currently the BDFRC is part of a pilot project for six months, handing out feminine hygiene products with our food hampers. We are able to support 500 women every month!
As an essential service in our community with numerous programs, your support allowed us to remain open and help families who are struggling with food insecurity in the Battlefords and the surrounding area throughout the year.
