C10

Cindy Sheppard
Caring matters

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Mom, I'm hungry. There's nothing to eat and I'm starving."

That's a line echoed by most teenagers as they scan the fridge or cupboard (or in the case of my son, both at once).

Generally speaking, the kid claiming such dire straits as starvation is far from starving, and as is often the case, food is readily available - just not the food they want.

Most parents can say confidently to their child that there is indeed food to eat, and, no, they are not going to starve.

However, there are situations that occur in families every day where there is not enough to eat, food has to be rationed or the cupboards are bare. It is in these situations that places such as the Fredericton Food Bank and the Fredericton Community Kitchen come to the aid of the family.

In Monday's Gleaner, a front page article highlighted the plight of many families in Fredericton who struggle financially. Many are working parents who find it difficult just to buy shelter, heat and the other basics of life.

Many of us have the luxury of grocery shopping without fear of spending a few more dollars than we had allocated. We get our produce and scan the fruits, grabbing the fresh looking oranges and peaches in season. Shopping can be an experiment in new things, but when the budget is stretched so tight you aren't sure where all the money is going to come from, it can be a stressful venture.

No fruits - too expensive. Only the vegetables that will go with all meals - potatoes and carrots - and no romaine lettuce, sweet potato or broccoli. It's not that families don't want to eat healthy; they just can't afford it.

The figures from Statistics Canada say almost one in five children in Canada lives in poverty. Some of these children are in our own city and neighborhoods. How can we help?

There are many options available to those who can afford to give a little extra. The community kitchen can always use donations of food, money and just as importantly - time.

The Fredericton Food Bank generally struggles during the summer months. Many people go away on vacation or are caught up in the summer activities we have such a short time to enjoy. However, those who are struggling to make ends meet don't take a break from it during the summer.

The food bank accepts donations of food, money, time and other necessities all year long. At this time of year, with school fast approaching, donations of school supplies are also welcome.

During the holiday season people are in a giving mood, but that mood needs to extend all year long. In addition to dealing with the challenges of feeding the family, many homes are in need of household items - furniture, bedding, dishes and appliances. If you are in a position to donate any of these items, the Fredericton Anti-Poverty Organization will gladly accept them.

Poverty is not new. However, in a world that is constantly overwhelming us with marketing, issues about health and wellness and the latest gadget that everyone must have, those who live in poverty feel overwhelmed and often, helpless.

It is the responsibility of everyone who can offer something to try and make poverty history. Will we ever eradicate it? Not if we don't all pitch in to try. Take a minute to reflect on the words of Eli Khamarov: "Poverty is like punishment for a crime you didn't commit."

Now make your decision on how you plan to help.

Cindy Sheppard is the executive director of the Fredericton Community Foundation. Her column profiling non-profit agencies appears every second Thursday. Please send comments to letters@dailygleaner.com.