More people continue to turn to the Kennebecasis Valley Food Basket for support every month.
It is why the non-profit food bank is looking to renovate and expand its location in Quispamsis.
Board Chair Brian Riganesi gave a presentation to members of Rothesay council on Monday.
Riganesi said KV Food Basket launched as a “stop-gap measure” in 1985 during a period of economic challenges.
“39 years later, here we are, still helping people in our communities that are faced with food insecurity,” Riganesi told council.
The food bank provides monthly food hampers to residents in Quispamsis, Rothesay, and several outlying communities.
Riganesi said they served an average of 325 families per month last year, an increase of 15 per cent compared to 2022
During the first three months, this year they provided food hampers to an average of 360 families each month.
“More space and an improved layout will allow us to better greet and service our clients, provide more confidential meeting spaces, and provide us with the ability to offer supporting workshops,” said Riganesi.
The board chair said the cost to renovate and expand their existing building was estimated to be around $500,000 in 2022. It would add about 300 square feet of space to their current 1,200 square feet, he said.
Riganesi said operating costs would increase, but he expects they will be able to cover it with more support from the towns of Rothesay and Quispamsis and continued support from the community.
He said the Town of Quispamsis has agreed to sell the building to the non-profit for $1 and they are currently working to complete the ownership transfer.
Riganesi said the next steps include re-engaging the architect, hiring a project manager, and issuing a request for proposals.
