Essex County food bank faces unique challenges as steady demand continues

There is a need for food banks, even during good economic times, and even in one of the most affluent areas of Windsor-Essex.

The food pantry at the Community Support Centre of Essex Countyis a prime example, as it will help 1,000 families this yearserving all of Lakeshore and Tecumseh.

CEO Tracey Bailey told Windsor Morningthere may be more jobs out there than in years past, but some people continue to struggle.

"The majority of the people that we're serving have found employment," she said. "They're certainly working, but they're underemployed from the standpoint of having adequate financial resources coming in to meet the needs of their family."

Bailey said the area is very giving when it comes to donations, and that there areunique needs for in-need people in the county as opposed to the city.

"We know that we need more social and affordable housing, andin a rural communitythat's a pressure," she said, adding that the lack of public transit also becomes a barrier for people, so the centre often provides mobile support services.

Hear more from Tracey on Windsor Morning

Bailey also hopes people will think about the actual people the food bank is serving because it is not always who you might expect.

In the past year, they've served 647 local children in the community, but small families, single people, and young people make up the majority of thosebeing helped.

"We know that Windsor-Essex in particular has been hit by the effects of poverty as the proportion of people living in poverty is significantly high," she said.