PORT HARDY – The Harvest Food Bank has some new people sowing assistance to those in need and it can use some help.
Members of the Seventh Day Adventist churches in Port Hardy stepped up to run the food bank after founder and manager Pierre Beaulieu announced he would like to retire.
Cheryl Elliott is the new manager of Harvest Food Bank, and she says things are continuing as they have.
"We took over two weeks ago and the transition has gone smoothly," said Cheryl.
The only immediate changes to the food bank have been some rearranging in the thrift store portion and new hours: Monday to Friday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cheryl is still learning the ropes, but has some plans for the future.
"We would like to extend the build eventually, to have a place where people could visit and have a cup of coffee," said Cheryl. "Maybe add a kitchen and a couple of showers."
One previous board member has remained on the otherwise new five-member board. Two of those new board members are Cheryl's husband Randy Elliott pastor of the Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw SDA church, and Pastor George Hilton of the Port Hardy SDA church.
Despite the church involvement the Harvest Food Bank Society remains a separate and independent entity, said the Elliotts.
Cheryl is grateful for the work of those who have come before her.
"We would like to thank Pierre for all his years of service and the wonderful vounteers who have been there for so many years," said Cheryl. "Some of the volunteers have retired as well. Some of the volunteers have stayed, but we are looking for more," said Cheryl. "We want to keep helping people and doing what we can."
Donations are always appreciated and pick up can be arranged.
For more information call Cheryl Elliott at 250-902-0332 or email harvest9@telus.net.