The Okotoks Food Bank has seen an increase of those in need compared to last year.  

Executive Director Sheila Hughes says 128 families used the organization for assistance in March, which is a 45 percent increase from the same time last year.

"We had 321 individual visits, which is much larger than any number we had seen before," Hughes says.

With the increase in demand, the amount of food that is needed has also increased.

Hughes says for most items there is a month to six weeks worth of food on the shelves, and their inventory is rapidly declining.

The Okotoks Lions Club donated $5,000 this month which Hughes says will be a big help along with the other donations they have received.

"We have seen quite a few donations here in this last month, people have been very generous. We received a donation from the Okotoks 8 Ball League. We have people who donate through birthday parties, every donation helps."

She adds the Food Bank spends $4,000-$5,000 on groceries every month over and above donations.

With summer just around the corner Hughes expects a decrease in donations, due to school being out and people going on vacation.

"Our need will stay the same so it will be a little trickier for us this year," Hughes says.

Most recently Okotoks Home Care Pharmacy and the Town of Okotoks have done food drives, while the Big Rock Singers have an upcoming fundraiser for the Food Bank and the Foothills Hospice. The Foothills Music Society had a concert this past weekend where they collected donations.

For more information on how to donate or what is needed, visit the Okotoks Food Bank website. 

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