Ruth’s Pantry helps Edmonton families with food insecurity: ‘Means a lot to us’

Edmonton resident Lisa Kruy started visiting Ruth’s Pantry for groceries in January after her family faced difficulties affording food due to the high cost of living. With only one income, Lisa and her husband struggled to put food on the table for their children. However, the pantry program, run by SOAR Community Empowerment, provided her with the necessary items to support her family. Lisa expressed how much the pantry meant to her, as it allowed her son to bring a lunch to school.

The northeast Edmonton facility, which launched last fall, is operated by SOAR Community Empowerment, a non-profit organization that supports vulnerable individuals in the community. Craig Henkelman, SOAR's director and CEO, highlighted that the pantry helps families facing various crises by providing groceries and a sense of dignity and empowerment. Ruth’s Pantry serves over 100 families, allowing them to register and select items weekly.

Staff at the pantry have witnessed heartbreaking stories, such as a family receiving milk and eggs after being in need for four days. The pantry relies on food sources and donations, and they are currently raising funds through a campaign called "1,000 for 150 for Kids" to build a commercial kitchen. This initiative aims to engage 1,000 people who can donate $150, helping the organization expand its services and offer more meals and classes on cooking.

Craig emphasized that the pantry is part of a broader community effort to combat food insecurity, and they are grateful for the support from individuals and organizations working towards the same goal.