Moose Jaw Family Services (MJFS) has just announced the expansion of its Fresh Food Box program, made possible by way of the Government of Canada’s new Community Services Recovery Fund.
Thanks to the new funding initiative, which was locally administered by United Way Regina, MJFS is now able to better address food insecurity in Moose Jaw by providing the food boxes at a new, lower cost of $10 per box. Each box is estimated to cost approximately $40 if purchased at retail.
To source the fresh produce used in the program, MJFS leverages its relationships with local producers to ensure the boxes are both nutritious and locally sourced foods of the highest quality.
“We believe this approach promotes a sense of ownership and self-sufficiency among participants, fostering a community where individuals can actively support themselves and (it) aligns with the values of MJFS, which are to empower individuals through collaboration, compassion, and respect,” MJFS’ executive director Tara Jones said in a statement.
The ongoing Fresh Food Box program has been operating successfully now for the past six months. Each of the boxes offered through the program come packed with a diverse selection of fresh, perishable foods including eggs, fruit, vegetables, and bread, along with numerous pantry samples.
All proceeds raised through the food box program are then re-invested to better enhance the program.
The Community Services Recovery Fund is a $400 million initiative recently launched by the federal government.
The Community Services Recovery Fund is delivered through the government’s three National Funders: the Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada, and United Way Centraide Canada. These funders help distribute money to eligible community service organizations that include charities, non-profits, and Indigenous governing bodies as they recover in the post-pandemic world and seek to modernize their operations.
MJFS is a registered non-profit organization providing numerous services to residents in and around Moose Jaw since 1977. The organization offers support to any members of the community who come face-to-face with life’s challenges by way of strength-based and client-centered programs, services, workshops, and training programs. The organization’s goal is to support, educate, empower, and strengthen individuals and families living in Moose Jaw.
“This expansion signifies a significant stride in empowering individuals and addressing food insecurity within our community,” Jones wrote in the statement.
“We express gratitude for the continuous support of United Way Regina and the Government of Canada. MJFS remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a healthier, more resilient community by providing essential resources and support to those in need.”
The Fresh Food Box program is administered twice monthly on Fridays.
For more information about the Fresh Food Box program offered by MJFS or to register, contact [email protected].
Moose Jaw Family Services Inc. is located at 200 Main Street South and can be reached at 306-694-8133.
