Frequently asked questions

The AFB has experienced a significant increase in demand, which has impacted our current facility. Since 2014, when our current facility was opened, the city's population has increased significantly, and we now serve over 88,000 people. To meet this growing need, we are expanding which will enable us to store, organize, and distribute food more efficiently, ensuring we can better serve our community. The AFB Annex will allow us to continue providing essential food support helping to build a stronger community.

The new AFB Annex will significantly impact the Airdrie Food Bank's operations by expanding our capacity to host corporate and community volunteer groups, strengthen community connections, and improve food distribution efficiency. With the additional space for sorting and storing donations, our 300+ volunteers can work more efficiently, allowing us to better serve those in need. This facility will help us provide more reliable and timely assistance, reinforcing our mission to a community where no one is hungry. The AFB Annex will also expand our capacity to store and recover more food, enabling more efficient distribution to families in Airdrie and surrounding areas. By increasing volunteer opportunities and improving operational safety, the Annex supports greater community involvement, sustainability, and resilience in addressing food insecurity.

No, the main food bank location will remain operational, ensuring clients can continue accessing services at the familiar location. The annex enhances operations behind the scenes without affecting the client-facing experience.

The AFB Annex will significantly alleviate the overcrowded conditions at our main facility. By providing much-needed storage for increased food donations, this annex will allow us to better manage our growing inventory. As a result, we can handle larger volumes of food more efficiently and ensure that those in need within our community receive timely and adequate support. This improvement not only enhances our operational capacity but also strengthens our ability to build a more resilient and well-supported community.

We have accessed existing capital funds for expansion and are applying for relevant grants and funding that will support our investment in the community, ensuring we can finance the new facility responsibly. If you'd like to donate to the AFB Annex Project, we've created an AFB Annex fund on our website where you can make contributions online.

Relocating the main facility would involve complex logistical challenges, such as rezoning and establishing new transportation routes for clients. Instead, the annex enables us to maintain our existing, accessible main facility while addressing our space issues. This solution ensures continuous, uninterrupted service and greater convenience for our clients, as they can continue to rely on the familiar location for their needs. The annex allows us to manage inventory more effectively, ensuring a steady supply of food and resources for those in need, ultimately helping us build a stronger community.