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Espanola’s CAO explains why food bank ask was turned down

Espanola Town CAO/Clerk Joseph Burke has an explanation as to why the Espanola Helping Hand Food Bank was turned down in its ask for the municipality to take care of their rent expenses.

The organization had asked for the town to cover its $1,500 per month rent that it pays for its housing space in Espanola’s downtown. 

Burke states a staff report says that of nine similar municipalities surveyed, only one municipality donated to their local food bank in the amount of $200 annually.  

He adds following a review of the financial statements submitted by the food bank, which is required for a donation request under the Town’s Charitable Donations Policy, it was determined that it was able to generate enough funds for their operating expenses in 2023 through fundraising and grants they receive.  

Burke says the food bank indicated they never have certainty around expected fundraising levels in any given year and are not sure if the funding they receive from Food Banks Canada will continue adding they have not yet been notified of any change for 2024.  

He adds it was determined that if local fundraising efforts are meeting the needs of the organization, then it was recommended to council that the Town not take over the food bank’s rent.  

However, Burke emphasizes the food bank is encouraged to come back and talk to council if their financial situation changes significantly adding they commend the organization and its volunteers for their work. 

Rosalind Russell
Rosalind Russellhttp://myespanolanow.com
Rosalind is Vista Radio's CJJM 99.3 FM - CJJM - Espanola's long-time Morning Announcer and Regional News Anchor/Journalist covering the districts of Sudbury, Algoma and Manitoulin. With a career in multi-media spanning the last 45 years, she has expertise in radio, television, newspaper and magazine writing. A long-time volunteer, she is the Inaugural 2025 Senior of the Year Award representing the Town of Espanola and represented women empowerment as the national 2024 Ms. Elite Regional Canada titleholder. A mother of five, and grandmother of two says simply, "I am the Queen of my Universe, and my children/grandchildren are my Crowning Jewels." Volunteering, pageants, reading and writing are her passions. If you have a story to share, email Roz at: [email protected] or call 1705-869-NEWS (6397).

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