SPOTLIGHT
Helping address food insecurity in our communities
Food insecurity is a pressing issue in Alberta, with more than 20% of Albertans struggling to put food on the table. This is the highest rate among all Canadian provinces. In March 2022 alone, 156,690 Albertans accessed food banks, marking a 34% increase from the previous year.
Supporting charitable organizations that significantly contribute to the enrichment of the local community is a top priority for MNP’s Edmonton team. Given the food insecurity challenges, Edmonton’s Food Bank — a local non-profit that provides food for over 34,000 people each month — made obvious sense to partner with. Through the collective efforts of volunteers and financial contributions, the Food Bank ensures equitable access to a nutritious food supply for community members in need.
In November 2023, a group of 18 MNP Edmonton region team members generously volunteered their time, dedicating a total of 54 hours to sorting and packing hampers. During this experience, Regional Managing Partner, Dustin Sundby, saw firsthand the increased need for the vital services the food bank provides.
“Learning about the food challenges in our community was very impactful,” Sundby says. “Many of us are aware of the problems, but we don’t understand the true depths of the issue and Edmonton's Food Bank team really opened my eyes.”
Inspired by his experience, he shared his story with the partner group in the Edmonton region, and they rose to the occasion.
In late November, the team raised over $50,000 for food banks in the region. The contributions from the region have helped Edmonton’s Food Bank continue its mission of providing essential food supplies to those in need. This support is crucial, especially in light of the increasing demand for food assistance in Alberta.
By volunteering their time and resources, the MNP Edmonton region team has made a significant difference in the lives of many community members, ensuring that they have access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.