Thanksgiving season heightens already-high pressure for food donations [Video]

With the arrival of Thanksgiving weekend, food banks and shelters in Windsor are reminding people that not everyone in our community will be able to have a turkey dinner with their family.

“It’s disappointing for us when we have so many families that approach us and ask us to think about them. But we know we’re not going to be able to help each and every family,” said CEO June Muir. “So that’s devastating for us and we do the best we can.”

Muir said the food bank at the UHC Hub of Opportunities is currently seeing around 1,800 weekly visits.

“On Thursday and Friday, we gave out 600 turkeys and 100 chickens, thanks to CUPE 543,” said Muir.

The problem isn’t unique to Windsor-Essex.

Across Canada, food banks are seeing a drop in donations, as the rising cost of living makes it harder for people to give.

“People who have donated in the past are …