Just like others across the country, demand is up at the Regina Foodbank.

A new survey from Food Banks Canada suggests lower-income households are struggling the most to put meals on the table as the price of food, gas and housing increases.

There are a few reasons for the uptick according to Regina Foodbank CEO, John Bailey. He says a big reason for the increased demand is inflation. Bailey noted they have seen more customers because of inflation as opposed to people’s wages and available household income.

One of the items that came up in the survey with Food Banks Canada is the increased amount of first time users to food banks. Bailey says that is also the case with the Regina Foodbank. “What we have seen is the uptick in folks who hadn’t used the food bank for a number of months or years turn to us on a regular basis and a lot of folks who have never used the food bank before, starting to seek support as well.”

The best way to help out the food bank in Regina is a monetary donation says Bailey, but there are other ways. He noted they are always looking for shelf stable products. These items include canned tuna, dry pasta, and pasta sauce. Bailey adds canned fruits and vegetables are very helpful because the food bank is able to process those items quickly.

Bailey pointed out the number one reason the Regina Food Bank is able to keep its doors open is the support from the community. He noted that they do not receive any source from the provincial and federal governments. Bailey says that the food bank is always grateful from the support that they received.