Canton Food Bank Expands Fresh Food Options

CANTON, CT — The Canton Food Bank is expanding its selection of fresh and less-processed foods as it works to support local families facing higher costs for groceries and other necessities.

Through its Fresh Food Initiative, the food bank uses funding from a Canton Community Health Fund Community Partner Grant to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from Bristol's farm market.

This year, the food bank also plans to offer frozen seafood and less-processed cheeses to clients.

The effort is part of the food bank's outreach to residents who are employed but have limited financial resources, sometimes described as "ALICE" households — an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.

In an interview provided by the Canton Community Health Fund, a working Canton mother who uses the food bank described how its assistance has changed during the 17 years she has been raising her family.

"In the past, the CFB offered mostly canned food as the main meal option," she said. "Today, food options focus on fresh vegetables, fruits and healthier choices in canned vegetables, seafood, meat and dairy products."

The woman said she first relied on the food bank while raising four children as a single mother, pursuing an education and working.

She now helps care for her elderly parents.

The food bank also provides household necessities that may not be covered by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, including toothpaste, laundry detergent and toilet paper.

The woman said one of the biggest obstacles to seeking assistance can be the stigma associated with needing help despite being employed.

"It was and continues to be a challenge to get over the feeling of shame," she said. "Shame that you are working hard at a good job, but still are unable to provide the healthy basics to your family."

Canton Food Bank Director Jennifer Herbek described the organization as a resource families can incorporate into their financial planning when budgets become strained.

"CFB is a financial planning resource when times get tough and families have to reconsider the best use of their budgets to keep their family fed, healthy and moving forward in a positive manner," Herbek said.

Canton families seeking information about the food bank can contact cantonfoodbank@gmail.com.

The Canton Community Health Fund also accepts donations to support the food bank and other local health and safety initiatives. Contributions can be mailed to P.O. Box 75, Collinsville, CT 06022, or made through the organization's website.