MOOSE JAW — A new era has begun at the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank because, after four decades of offering the traditional food hamper program, it has switched to a client-choice shopping model.
Nearly two dozen people filled the venue on Oct. 28 to help the organization launch its new food distribution program, “The Harvest Pantry.” The new model was made possible by a three-year, $90,000 sponsorship agreement with Moose Jaw Co-op.
The Harvest Pantry’s hours are 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, while Wednesday is 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. However, clients — the food bank supports roughly 800 households a month — need to book a time to pick up their items since space is limited.
The kickoff event helps celebrate a “remarkable journey” for the food bank, which, for 40 years, has shown commitment, resilience and community spirit, said Jason Moore, executive director.
During those four decades, the food bank has been privileged to serve people in need, while it owes its success to the steadfast support of the “incredible community” of Moose Jaw, he continued.
“It is your dedication, generosity and partnership that have truly been the foundation of our efforts. For that, we extend our deepest gratitude to each of you,” he remarked.
This 40-year milestone allows the agency to celebrate its past and reflect on the difference it has made in the community and working with others, Moore said. It is also inspired by a future filled with new ways to serve — including its client-choice shopping model.
This new program was made possible by the “invaluable support” that the Co-op and residents have given since this “innovative approach” allows clients to select items that best meet their needs and cultural preferences, he continued.
Moreover, this change gives people the dignity and autonomy they deserve while respecting individual choices, reducing waste, and helping the organization maximize its resources to have the greatest effect, Moore remarked.
“By embracing this client-focused model, we are reinforcing the core values of our community (and) building a stronger and more resilient foundation for those in need,” he added. “This is not simply a change in process; it is a transformation that will have lasting and positive effects on every individual we serve.”
Moore said afterward that the food bank updated its main space within a week — he and his brother spent the weekend doing quick renovations — while staff and volunteers helped fill shelves.
“I’m really happy with how it looks. I know our clients are really excited to get in here,” he added. “Some of them were peaking through the doors throughout the week, giving us the thumbs-up.”
Geoff Anderson, CEO of the Moose Jaw Co-op, said his organization was formed in Saskatchewan 80 years ago in 1944 during the Second World War since people saw a need to provide goods and services more effectively. Forty years later, in 1984, the Moose Jaw food bank was organized because residents saw a similar need to help others.
Forty years later, in 2024, volunteers and residents are still passionate about supporting the food bank’s mission, while the organization’s “outstanding leadership” has created a “best in class” food program for residents who need it, Anderson continued.
“At the Moose Jaw Co-op, our value is ‘people first.’ And what goes along with that value is that everyone matters,” he remarked.
Whenever Anderson hears of individuals in need, he usually thinks of single mothers who can pay all the bills but struggle to purchase food for their kids — with children mattering the most in the community.
Anderson added that he and the Co-op board were pleased to provide $90,000 over three years to support The Harvest Pantry and the people who will use it.
