Our Daily Bread Food Bank Faces Critical Funding Shortfall as Demand Doubles in Nelson

Our Daily Bread Food Bank Faces Critical Funding Shortfall as Demand Doubles in Nelson

Published 5:00 am Thursday, July 23, 2026

Our Daily Bread Food Bank is facing a critical funding shortfall as demand doubles in Nelson.

Our Daily Bread, a vital community hub and food bank serving Nelson and surrounding areas, has issued an urgent appeal for funding. Due to a large increase in demand paired with high increases in food procurement costs, the organization welcomes community and donor support to ensure it can keep its doors open for the remainder of the year

Data compiled from the first half of 2026 reveals a challenge for the food bank. Between January and May, the total number of individuals served doubled, jumping from 84 individuals in January to 168 in May—a 100% increase in demand over just five months. Our Daily Bread feels that this is an exciting challenge to have, but is also aware of its need for increased support

– Consistent Support for Vulnerable Demographics: Seniors continue to represent a significant portion of those supported, with an average of over 40 vulnerable seniors relying on services each month

– Expanding Geographic Footprint: While centered in Nelson, Our Daily Bread’s reach has expanded significantly to address regional rural poverty, with clients traveling from outlying communities including Winlaw, Balfour, Slocan, Taghum, Blewett, Queen’s Bay, and Castlegar

“We are facing a dual challenge,” said the Program Coordinator, Tyler Bethune, for Our Daily Bread. Inflation has made groceries unaffordable for more families and seniors in the West Kootenays than ever before. At the exact same time, those same rising costs mean our budget stretches half as far when purchasing bulk supplies. We are distributed to capacity, our shelves are emptying faster than we can restock. This is an amazing program that serves our community, and at this time we are asking our wider community to consider partnering with us in this endeavor.

Donations may be made to:

E-transfer: odb@odboffice.com

Cheques: Mailed to 520 Falls Street, Nelson, BC