BROCKVILLE, ON: Charities have always had to think outside-the-box to deliver programs to the people they serve; since the pandemic, this has become even more true. Beginning in January, the Brockville and Area Food Bank and YMCA of Eastern Ontario will launch their partnership that will see the Y deliver financial and payroll services for the Food Bank.
The Brockville and Area Food Bank has seen approximately 100 per cent increase in demand for their services, over the past few years, which has increased the volume of accounting requirements, straining the efforts of the Food Bank’s volunteer accountant.
“Until 2022, the Food Bank was completely run by volunteers,” said JoAnne Sytsma, chair of the board of directors for the Brockville and Area Food Bank. “Coming out of the pandemic, we hired our first employee to provide consistency and leadership for our operations. The cooperation between the Food Bank and the Y will see this same level of sustainability for our financial back-of-house.”
The Food Bank sent an RFP (request for proposal) to local agencies in the fall, with the Y being selected for its financial expertise and capacity.
“Being able to offer our services to a like-minded charity is an example of our partnership mindset,” said Rob Adams, CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario. “Charities, governments and other organizations need to work together to ensure that we are all able to serve our communities reliably into the future. We are delighted to be able to provide our financial expertise to the Food Bank and welcome other charities to reach out if they feel we can be of assistance.”
The partnership does not affect either charity’s status as an independent organization, but demonstrates a commitment to collaboration and community.
About the Brockville & Area Food Bank
The Brockville and Area Food Bank has been helping feed people in our local community for over 30 years. We provide a five-day supply of emergency food to families and individuals in our community once a month and an additional supply once a year for a total of 13 food bank visits allowed annually. www.brockvilleandareafoodbank.ca
About the YMCA of Eastern Ontario
The YMCA of Eastern Ontario is a charity that provides programs and services to improve health and health outcomes, develop leaders, help build social connections and provide safe, inclusive spaces for people of all ages. The Y is Ontario’s largest provider of childcare with trademarked curricula, and offers fitness and other specialized programs including, Work Hard Eat Well, Teen Night, Teen Drop-in and Karate. www.eo.ymca.ca.
For media inquiries or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Colleen Gareau
Director, Marketing & Communications
YMCA Eastern Ontario
613-888-9298
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Charitable Registration Number: 10822-5418-RR0001
