Future of local food security program in doubt

The fate of a food security program that hundreds of Manitoba seniors rely on is in jeopardy. CTV’s Jon Hendricks explains why.

The future of a food security program that hundreds of older Manitobans rely on is in doubt.

The program is run by local non-profit Age and Opportunity which arranges for food hampers to be delivered to the seniors in need.

“We refer to it as a basket of services that people need,” said Amanda Macrae from Age and Opportunity.

“It’s not ever usually just one thing. There’s usually multiple things going on.”

However, the program will end by the end of summer.

According to Age and Opportunity, the Province of Manitoba, which has funded the program for the past two years, said it’s moving on.

“We’re hoping that this isn’t sort of a systemic issue of ageism, where older adults aren’t being considered within policy,” said Macrae.

To ensure clients are informed, the organization sent a letter explaining no further hampers will be scheduled for delivery after Aug. 31 due to funding cuts.

That’s a disappointment to Joseph Fourre, who’s 85-year-old mother Victoria depends on the hampers each month.

“A program like this is the world to her,” said Fourre.

“Not only for the food that comes once a month, but for that little bit of social aspect of having that visit.”

Fourre said this was a program that was well worth the investment. He wants it to continue or be replaced with something similar.

That may be what happens.

In a statement to CTV News, Health and Seniors Minister Uzoma Azagwara said, “We’re moving to a direct partnership with Heart to Home, the organization that has actually been delivering these hampers to seniors.

“In addition to establishing new relationships with senior serving organizations in rural and northern communities. We believe working directly with frontline organizations helps us strengthen services, maximize investments and make sure more support reaches Manitobans who need it most.

“We are already actively working with Heart to Home to ensure there is a smooth transition with no interruption in service for current clients.”