Food Cupboard lends helping hand to community

Waterford and District Food Cupboard’s Donna Thompson, Doreen McCracken, Gail Nutley, Allan Hayes, and Carrie Hewitson.

Brenda Moser

Advocate Contributor

When I read of the Waterford and District Food Cupboard Annual Meeting for the year ending 2025, I contacted them and was cordially invited to attend. I have featured the Food Cupboard in a previous column, but I was interested to see how things are going for them in these tough times.

The meeting at their Nichol Street location was well attended by their executive - all volunteers - and their reports were very positive. As I browsed their shelves to check out the stock, I was totally impressed by the selection and quantity of food to choose from. Not only do they offer canned, non-perishable items, but dairy products, fresh in-season produce generously donated by locals, personal care items, ‘treats’ and Tim Hortons baked goods weekly.

Their approach is no discrimination for anyone who comes through their doors. Volunteers are there to help and will ensure that they leave with a well-balanced assortment of groceries that they can select themselves.

The Food Cupboard has been fortunate in that the Waterford and surrounding areas have always been there to donate either through local food drives, in-store grocery drop-off or monetary donations. They are also lucky to have many volunteers who give of their time to stock shelves, collect donations… whatever needs to be done. Always willing to lend a hand!

They realize that harder times are ahead of them but they will endure with the support they get from the community.

“We will be here for those who may need a helping hand,” said Chair and Food Cupboard coordinator Donna Thompson.

She went on to thank the dedicated volunteers, the community, organizations and clubs, churches and food distributers (Foodland) for their continued support.

“Thank you all for your unwavering dedication,” added Thompson.

Waterford has done them proud. Keep up the good work and thanks again to the wonderful group of volunteers who are there when needed.

“Empathy is a strange and powerful quality, no script to follow, no right or wrong way to do it. We simply all listen, withhold judgment and communicate to our clients. You are not alone, we are here for you. If we can make one person smile or have a laugh, our time is well spent. We can make a difference.”

If you need their services or would like to donate or volunteer, they are located at 61 St. James Street South, Waterford, rear entrance. Look for the red door! They are open Wednesdays from 7-8 pm so feel free to stop in.

A huge thanks has to go out to the people and businesses of Waterford and area that continue to support our local Food Cupboard. It is greatly appreciated!