Overview of the CCU FAITH Pantry (F.A.I.T.H. – Fresh Food Always in the Home)
The Christ Church United FAITH Pantry was created to provide an emergency supply of food to those experiencing temporary hardship. It does not, should not, and cannot, fulfill the entirety of a household’s total food needs. The majority of food banks in Ontario are able to provide service just once per month. FAITH Pantry provides service on a weekly basis. Inventory is monitored regularly to ensure we can continue on a weekly basis. We have one shopper who monitors the inventory
Clients are encouraged to register with the House of Lazarus Food Bank and Community Food Share initiatives. Community food drives and donation bins at the grocery store are what most people think of when they think of food banks. FAITH Pantry also relies on monetary donations to purchase the majority of the food and toiletries due to the increase in client visits.
Pantry Ongoing Wish List
- ESL (English as a Second Language) – in conversation now with TR Leger
- Alcoholics Anonymous Charter
- Breakfast Program
- New Sign for Community Faith Garden
- New donation boxes
- Rhubarb and raspberry canes
- Fruit trees – pear tree has been donated (Jun 2024) and apple tree (Apr 2025)
- Shower and laundry facilities
Chesterville Public School working with FAITH Pantry and the Upper Canada District School Board ‘Real World Learning Program’
https://www.facebook.com/realworldlearningUCDSB
The Grade 5 and 6 classes of the Chesterville Public School are immensely helpful in the FAITH Pantry and FAITH Garden. They assist with planting and fertilizing the garden, having fun while learning and making a positive contribution to their own community. They along with the Girl Guides, our young assist in planting in the Spring and harvesting in the Fall.
Chesterville Public School students built and donated 4 wooden “buddy” benches that grace our FAITH Garden in 2024.
Overall Statistics
- Number of Volunteers: 14
- Number of Registered Clients: 34 Families (approx. 62 Adults, 63 children)
- Average visits/week: 13
- Wednesday evenings approximately 40 persons join us for an evening meal
- Average Groceries purchased/month: $1000 CAD in addition to donated food
