Desjardins and the Memphrémagog Food Bank join forces to feed more local people

The Memphrémagog Food Bank is delighted to receive a major donation of $50,000 from the Caisse Desjardins du Lac-Memphrémagog to finance the organization's expansion project. These funds will enable the organization to double the size of its social grocery store and offer food assistance to twice as many households every day.

Expansion to meet growing needs

With construction scheduled to begin in 2025, the Food Bank is delighted to be able to count on this major support from Desjardins. This investment comes at just the right time to support the organization, which last year saw a 21% increase in the number of people it helped in the Memphrémagog MRC. Ultimately, the aim is to welcome up to 64 households a day, or 4 households every 20 minutes.

“We are convinced that the expansion of the Memphrémagog Food Bank is a crucial investment for our community. By supporting this initiative, we are taking a significant step towards fighting poverty and food insecurity on our territory. It's a clear example of how we can use our resources to improve the lives of our fellow citizens and build a more cohesive, resilient community.” - Sylvie Marcotte, Caisse General Manager.

“It's particularly reassuring to know that a financial institution like Desjardins is listening and available to our growing number of members who are experiencing food insecurity,” emphasizes Karine Beaupré, General Manager of the Memphrémagog Food Bank.

Every year, the organization recovers and distributes over $1,489,649 in foodstuffs, the equivalent of 403,038 meals. The building in its current state has reached full capacity. Following several studies carried out with external consultants, the Food Bank decided to renovate the first floor in order to recover space for administrative offices and double the size of the social grocery store. The offices will be moved upstairs, along with a brand-new conference room bearing the Desjardins name. This new space will enable the team to collaborate on future development and innovation projects for the organization, all in order to respond appropriately to all current and future demands.

Further initiatives will soon be announced by the Food Bank to raise the funds needed to complete the expansion project. Interested individuals and companies can contact us at info@banquealimentaire.ca to learn more about partnership and recognition opportunities available to donors.