Re: “For many Canadians, access to food a challenge,” July 9.
Sylvain Charlebois points out that the need for food banks is increasing, but food banks are currently dependent on government grants and private donations.
For the last several years, our governments have been focused on subsidizing developments by international investors and have not kept up with the growing requirements in Canada for social assistance. Also, the increasing number of retirees on fixed incomes and the decline in purchasing power of middle-class workers have decreased the availability of donations. Alternative funding is required.
My wife and I (both octogenarians) were recently enrolled as founding directors for the Cowichan Elder Care Co-operative whose purpose is to provide services to seniors who want to stay in their current residences, and seniors who need transition accommodation when they have to move. With the help of a consultant, it became rapidly apparent that any revenues obtained by providing such services would not be adequate for recovering the costs. We need outside sources of revenues which are not dependent on government grants and private donations.
One of the alternatives being considered is for our co-operative to create, own and operate a profitable British-style snug pub in our community which would be attractive to seniors and others, providing a quiet, cosy, convivial ambience in which to enjoy a fine beverage with their reading, conversation and meals. We are open and receptive to other proposals.
Robert Radford
Duncan
