For some reason, it's easier to think about helping the hungry at Christmas than in the heat of July.
But people who live on the razor's edge of poverty are in need of food all year long, just like the rest of us.
So where do food banks turn when the cupboards are bare and all the largesse from the holidays has been handed out?
They purchase food in bulk from local farmers.
In New Westminster, the society also gets help from the community garden society, with food grown on plots specifically for the food bank by volunteers, free of charge.
This summer, the society is retooling the food banks' handout bags altogether, making them more nutritious.
This is good news for those in need, who are more likely to get locally grown tomatoes and cucumbers than expired cans of beans at this time of year.
But during the summer, the food banks' needs are just as great as the rest of the year.
So consider how you can help, even when there isn't a jolly old man in red reminding you about why giving is so important.
The food banks can always use cash donations. This allows the society to purchase food items they are low on, particularly fresh produce.
If you do plan to donate food, con-ider what non-perishable items you'd want to feed your own family. Because whether or not people have enough money to eat well, they still have the same nutritional needs as anyone else. Donating dozens of packets of gelatin dessert and drink mix crystals isn't likely to help those in need stay healthy and strong throughout this challenging time in their lives.
For more information on how to help and on the society's day-long Seeding Change event on July 22, visit www. foodbank.bc.ca.
