Vancouver Island University's (VIU's) Nanaimo campus is set to become Loaves & Fishes Community Food Bank's twelfth Free Food Market location next week.
On Monday evenings, Loaves & Fishes volunteers will set up at VIU's Trades Discovery Centre for a Free Food Market. (Photo Credit: Vancouver Island University)
Starting August 24, community members can access the service every Monday from 5 to 7 pm in the Windsor Plywood Trades Discovery Centre (Building 108). Loaves & Fishes operates 13 Free Food Markets per week across the city to bring food directly to where people live.
"Partnering with Vancouver Island University to open a Loaves & Fishes Free Food Market on campus will make it easier for students and community members to access food where they need it," said Peter Sinclair, Executive Director. "We are grateful to VIU for recognizing the importance of food security and working with us to create a welcoming market that is open to everyone."
The Free Food Market model is central to Loaves & Fishes' approach to food security. Rather than a traditional food bank distribution model, the markets are designed to feel welcoming and reduce barriers, allowing community members to shop with dignity and choose food that reflects their preferences and needs.
"We are pleased to host a Loaves & Fishes Free Food Market on campus," said Chris Yeast, Manager of Student Affairs. "Not only will our own community benefit from increased access to this important service, but we are able to increase accessibility for people in the area. And with the rising costs of living, we know that students are struggling more than ever to make ends meet. With this service so close, we hope this means students are facing one less tough choice. They can choose to pay rent or buy books instead of feed themselves that week."
Anyone is free to access the market once they register. Free parking is available in Lot U from 4 to 7 pm. Loaves & Fishes does not require proof of address or income to access food. Individuals must bring photo ID for each family member they are collecting food on behalf of. Learn more about the Free Food Markets.
