Fort St. John Women’s Resource Society faces critical food shortage as demand soars

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Fort St. John Women’s Resource Society is calling on the community to help fill its nearly empty shelves at the Outreach Store. 

With over 1,000 people visiting each month for support, the demand for non-perishable food items has skyrocketed, surpassing previous years.

“Our shelves are almost empty,” said the society in a Facebook post. “Even with generous food drives and incredible community help, we’re struggling to meet the growing need.”

According to Estefania Albornoz, the society’s manager of fundraising and community engagement, visits to the Outreach Store have risen steadily from 13,215 in 2023 to 15,274 in 2024, with numbers expected to increase further this year.

“Some of the individuals now seeking support were once donors themselves, which speaks volumes about the shifting economic landscape,” Albornoz added.

According to Albornoz, rising grocery prices and broader economic pressures are key factors contributing to the surge in demand. 

“We’ve seen more people turning to us not just for food, but for basic necessities they used to be able to afford,”  Albornoz said.

The society also distributes clothing, hygiene products and pet food. Currently, the supply of hygiene items and seasonal clothing are sufficient, but food donations are the society’s “top priority,” according to Albornoz.

Local businesses and community members have already started responding to the call for help, with donations arriving quickly after the request, Albornoz said. 

“Whenever we put out a call for help, people rally around us with generosity and urgency… Every single donation, big or small, helps us continue serving those who need it most.”

The Outreach Store provides support to individuals and families facing challenges like job loss, underemployment, fixed incomes or rising living costs. 

“We don’t ask questions [at the store],” Albornoz said. “Asking for help is already a brave step, and when someone walks through our doors, we offer support without judgment.”

Community members can donate non-perishable food items, including granola bars, pasta, rice, canned vegetables, peanut butter and more. A complete list of the most needed food items is available here.

“One of the most inspiring parts of our work is seeing the full circle of giving,” Albornoz added. 

“People who once came to us for help often return later as donors, eager to give back once their circumstances improve. It’s a beautiful cycle of resilience and community care.”

Drop-offs are accepted Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the back door of 9912 96th Ave.