As of July 10, the Ranchlands Community Food Pantry has received 113 hamper requests, just shy of the 120 total requests recorded for all of 2024. Typically, households requesting hampers consist of two adults, one child aged 12 to 18, and two children under 12.
The pantry is operated by 18 dedicated volunteers, with support from the Ranchlands Facility Coordinator and the Office Administrator. It is organized and managed entirely within the community and relies on continued local involvement to support neighbours in need.
Over the years, the program has expanded and sustained itself largely through donation drives led by local businesses, the Ranchlands School, and St. James Anglican Church. Thanks to partnerships with YYC Leftovers, Cobs Bread, Community Natural Foods, Paris Bakery, and MLA Julia Hayter’s Period Products Drive, the pantry has been able to supplement its non-perishable offerings with fresh food and toiletries.
The year-over-year increase in requests is likely due to two key factors. First, the rising cost of living means that, for many, a dollar simply doesn’t stretch as far as it used to. Second, the pantry’s improved outreach means more residents in need are now aware of and accessing the program.
With demand rising, the focus has shifted to long-term sustainability. The pantry is now working to increase its base of monthly donors to help regularly stock staple items like rice, beans, and canned soups; items that are frequently in short supply. Community members interested in supporting the program can become monthly donors at http://ranchlandscommunity.com/donate or by calling the community office at 403-241-0335. Monthly giving is simple, secure, tax-deductible, and any amount helps toward the goal of raising an additional $80 per month for non-perishable goods.
Residents seeking food assistance can request a hamper through the Programs section of the community website.
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