Glencore's Sudbury Integrated Nickel Operations (INO) has donated $50,000 to the Sudbury Food Bank.
Over the last four weeks, the costs to keep the Sudbury Food Bank running have risen to keep up with an increased demand for food. More need has resulted in more frequent deliveries to local food banks.
Dan Xilon, the food bank's executive director, said that one area food bank, which normally serves 20 people a day, is now serving about 50 people a day, or 220 people per week.
“We are pleased to be able to increase our support to Sudbury Food Bank during this challenging time,” said Rob Roeterink, the director of Sudbury INO’s Strathcona Mill, who also sits as member of the food bank's board of directors.
“As a long-time partner, we value the work that Sudbury Food Bank does. We witness the incredible community need that the dedicated team and volunteers work to provide for, year over year.
“The food bank continues to make a difference to thousands of families in the local community, and the pandemic situation makes the challenge and the need even greater.
"This is further proof that the work of the Sudbury Food bank is critical, and is at the heart of the Sudbury community. We thank the entire organization for their tireless work.”
The Sudbury Food Bank provides food to 44 food banks, meal providers and agencies throughout Greater Sudbury. Prior to the pandemic, these groups supported 8,000 to 8,500 people per month.
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Glencore joins other mining companies operating across the North that are supporting communities in various ways as the coronavirus pandemic continues.
Earlier in April, Glencore announced it had set up a $25-million community support fund, which would help the communities in which it operates.
Vale also provided financial assistance to the Sudbury Food Bank, donating $100,000 in late March.
The nickel miner then launched the Vale COVID-19 Challenge, which encourages innovative thinkers to come up with practical solutions to address health issues related to the pandemic. The winner is eligible for a US$200,000 prize.
Meanwhile, Newmont donated $150,000 in Chapleau and Timmins, to help provide social services and food for residents in need.
The gold miner later established the $20-million Newmont Global Community Support Fund in an effort to help host communities, governments, and employees who have been impacted by COVID-19.
