Edmonton's Food Bank's holiday donation campaign is a success thanks to city's 'remarkable generosity'

Volunteers at Edmonton's Food Bank organizing donations on Oct. 28, 2024. (CTV Edmonton/Amanda Anderson)

Edmonton's Food Bank shared its final numbers of the 2024 Festive Campaign donation drive.

The food bank reached its fundraising goal of $4.5 million and was just shy of its food goal, collecting 270,000 kg of food – which is nearly 90 per cent of the 300,000 kg target.

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Marjorie Bencz, the food bank's executive director, said in a Friday news release how they've faced significant challenges this year with "record requests for help," despite Edmonton's "remarkable generosity."

"Meeting our fundraising goal this year is an extraordinary achievement, and we are deeply grateful for every dollar, every can of food, and every hour of time donated," Bencz said.

"While we’ve made progress, we are also facing the most significant demand in our history, and this support will help us as we continue to feed our neighbors in need," she added.

While the holiday campaign was deemed a success, Edmontonians still experience challenges of food insecurity in their homes.

According to the food bank's website, on average it receives 323 online requests and 322 phone calls from clients every day. Its services reach more than 40,000 people every month.

On Dec. 30, the federal government announced an extension to the 2024 charitable donation deadline to Feb. 28. This means any donations made before Feb. 28, including donations going to Edmonton's Food Bank, will apply toward the 2024 tax year.

Visit the food bank's website to find out how to donate.