BLOG The Stories of Us

Meet the amazing team who runs our newest satellite location, all thanks to you and the incredible support from the City of Kelowna! In 2023, the Central Okanagan Food Bank (COFB) launched a dynamic new satellite location in Rutland, and the impact has been nothing short of transformative.

Imagine this: a place where hurdles like transportation issues, disabilities, tight schedules, and caregiving responsibilities are no longer barriers to accessing essential food supplies. That’s exactly what our new Willow Park location has achieved.

From day one, the Willow Park site has been buzzing with activity, handling an incredible influx of client visits. Before we opened, our monthly visits were at 6,059. Now? We’ve skyrocketed to 12,235! Yes, you read that right. We’ve doubled our reach, ensuring more people have access to the nutritious food they need. And in just a short span of time, Willow Park has welcomed 405 of those new clients through their doors, providing them with fresh produce, dairy, meat, and pantry staples that make a real difference in the lives of our community members.

But it’s not just about the numbers. It’s about the stories behind those numbers. Each visit means someone can now redirect their limited finances towards other crucial needs like housing and utilities. Willow Park is more than a location; it’s a lifeline that helps our clients breathe a little easier.

Equitable access is at the heart of what we do. At COFB, we’re committed to serving everyone with dignity and respect. This includes a strong focus on supporting our BIPOC community members, persons with disabilities, and displaced persons or refugees. We believe in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have access to the resources they need.

Notably, 64% of our Willow Park clients depend on income support programs like Employment Insurance, Social Assistance, and Canada’s Pension Plan. This statistic highlights the broader economic challenges faced by many in our community, and underscores the importance of our services in providing essential support. We’re here to ensure they receive the help they need with dignity, fostering well-being and inclusion every step of the way.

The success story of our Rutland satellite location is a testament to the City of Kelowna’s dedication to lifting up vulnerable populations. Together, we’re making a tangible impact. And this is just the beginning. With your ongoing support, we can continue to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.

Thank you for being a cornerstone of our mission to combat food insecurity and build a more inclusive and supportive community. Let’s keep this momentum going and make even greater strides together!