Dear editor,
After reading the front page article on the relocation efforts being made on behalf of the food bank, It reminded me of the time I needed a little help.
The overall experience was tolerable but the process could certainly be reviewed.
Once a person has managed to find a parking spot and joins everyone waiting in line, the fun begins. Children running out of control, some people sitting on the ground and then you get the chatty ones that have to tell you their life story.
It's a very small place to begin with so only a certain number of people are permitted into the distribution area at one time.
The mom who brings her five children, plus another adult to help out with carrying the box of supplies should arrange for a sitter beforehand.
When you enter the door, a lady sitting behind a counter asks you for a little information, like your full name and address and phone number, are you still with (using the first name of your wife or husband) and have you used this service before?
I understand the concept of identification but do you really need everyone else to know your personal information or situation? More discretion should be used to ensure the privacy of the client is being protected.
Once that embarrassing moment is over, the lady will give you a piece of torn cardboard with a number on it. If there are two in the family, you get the number one. This determines how much food you will be offered.
They ask you to look over the contents of the box to see If there's something that you don't or can't use so you give it back. This makes sense but what I don't understand is this, when you return an item, shouldn't you receive something to replace it?
I don't use sugar, flour or rice, I don't drink tea and I don't eat squash, milk that expires in one day I don't take, so I offer these items back.
I'm pushed along and before you know it, you're out the door. So what did I receive for all my efforts? Not very much at all.
I know this is a service offered to help individuals in need and I also know that a person should be happy with what they receive and should be thankful and not complain. I just think that the whole process needs to be addressed, and conducted in a more respectful manner.
Tina Ward,
Comox Valley