New Brunswick food banks are getting $9 million in funding to meet growing demand.
In a news release Monday, the provincial government announced funding for Feed NB to support food banks across the province.
Health Minister John Dornan said the initiative is a response to rising food bank use in recent years, which has increased by more than 50 per cent, according to recent data.
“This investment will help meet growing demand and expand access to healthy, local food in communities throughout the province,” he said in a statement.
Dornan added the agreement will give Feed NB — a non-profit organization that collects, stores and distributes food to around 69 partner agencies, including food banks and community kitchens — the predictability it needs to continue supporting local organizations.
The funding will be provided over three years, starting with $2.75 million in 2026-27 — including $458,000 announced in February — followed by $3 million in 2027-28 and $3.25 million in 2028-29. The money will be used exclusively to cover food costs.
According to the release, the government has previously provided funding to Feed NB in response to extraordinary circumstances. Since 2021, the province has contributed varying amounts due to the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation-related pressures.
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Feed NB executive director Stephane Sirois said in an interview with Acadia Broadcasting on Monday the initiative will provide stability and allow organizations to focus on priorities such as operational funding.
“That’s the next big challenge for us,” he said. “Now that we have some stability with food, how do we make sure there’s the infrastructure and resources in place in every community to serve clients?”
Sirois said the funding is a positive step, but more work is needed to address funding gaps for food banks and community kitchens.
He said provincial grants intended to cover operational costs are not enough.
Sirois added Feed NB will continue engaging government, donors, community leaders and the business sector “to make sure there is enough funding to offer the service in their community.”
“We all have a role to play to make sure no one goes hungry,” he said.
The agreement will be assessed after three years to determine whether it continues to meet the need.
In addition to the new funding, the Department of Health will continue to offer grants to Feed NB member organizations through its Community Food Resource Support Program.
Applications are accepted annually, and the grants can be used to support food purchasing and operational costs.
