Alberta Health Services (AHS) ordered a southern Alberta charity to shut down on Aug. 14 after they say they found several major health concerns.
The Southern Community Food Security Society opened in 2022, operating a food bank and thrift store in Raymond, Alta.
However, following an AHS inspection earlier this month, the charity was closed.
AHS says it found evidence of mouse droppings in the food area, improperly refrigerated eggs, expired toddler formula and the hand-wash sink was inaccessible, among other concerns.
“Incompatible storage practices were observed with food items stored in close proximity to non-food related items.”
The inspection report also says the storage area was disorganized and overcrowded, making the inspection itself a challenge.
“The overhead door was open, allowing pest access to the facility. Additionally, there were three cats who were in the food establishment at various times during the inspection.”
In a public statement on social media, the Southern Community Food Security Society says it will be officially closing its doors to both the food bank and thrift store.
“No food will be distributed through our organization and the thrift store will cease to take donations or selling goods.”
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They went on to thank their volunteers for the years of hard work.
“We are so thankful for those in the community that have supported our mission these last 5 years. We are honoured to have helped thousands of families and individuals during that incredible time. We cannot thank our team of loyal and tireless volunteers enough for the countless hours they have poured into these charities; they have truly made a difference in so many lives.”
However, they say they were routinely short-staffed and unable to reopen. as a result.
“We have not made the decision to shut down operations lightly. We have continually fallen short on our need for able bodies to help with the manual labor involved in handling and distributing hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of food. While we are indebted to the folks who have shown up routinely, this task has become more than our bodies can continue to allow.”
The group also cited a lack of government support for their shutdown.
“Though there have certainly been members who have done incredible things to support our mission, some have put up major roadblocks to our success in helping relieve food insecurity in rural southern Alberta communities. With the continued lack of supports, we have been left with no choice.”
This loss leaves the small town with limited food security options.
Raymond Mayor Bryce Coppieters told Global News in a statement that he is thankful for the years of service provided by the society, and acknowledges how good the people of the town can be.
“Raymond has always been a community that looks out for its neighbours, and we hope that spirit continues as we look ahead,” said Coppieters.
He says the town is open to new services opening up to help fill the gap.
“We welcome conversations with organizations interested in supporting food security and working alongside our community.”
The Town of Raymond says there are other groups still available to support those in need.
“In the meantime, residents experiencing food insecurity can access the three Little Free Pantry locations throughout Raymond, which provide basic food and hygiene items, and may also contact local leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to learn about available assistance.”
The Southern Community Food Security Society’s statement also says they are now working with other local groups to ensure Raymond is still supported.
“We will be working with local charities to receive our goods, equipment and inventory as we dissolve our operations. We hope to make lasting ripples in other charities with what we have built here. Food security has always been our mission and we aim to benefit charities with like minded missions. Please stay tuned for more information on this.”
Global News reached out to the Southern Community Food Security Society for an interview, but did not hear back.
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