The Rhineland & Area Food Bank is now operating out of a new location at the Altona United Church, offering clients a fresh, welcoming space designed with dignity, privacy, and choice in mind.
The food bank officially moved into the church at 45 3rd Avenue SE in Altona earlier this month after leaving its previous location owned by Sun Valley Co-op, which required the space back for retail use. The food bank is open Mondays from 10-11 a.m. and 7-8 p.m.
“This feels like a bit of a homecoming,” said longtime board member Ang Stoesz. “The concept of the food bank started in this church many years ago.”
Stoesz said the search for a new home was not easy.
“We had six months to find something, and we moved in about two weeks before that deadline,” she shared. “There aren’t a lot of spaces that can accommodate what we need, especially when privacy is such a priority.”
The church offered an ideal solution, providing unused space that could be adapted to meet the food bank’s needs while ensuring clients feel comfortable and respected.
“One of our biggest values is choice,” Stoesz said. “That’s why we don’t pre-package hampers. I don’t think anyone should have to take something they don’t want or don’t use.”
The Rhineland & Area Food Bank has been serving the community for nearly 30 years and continues to see increased demand, driven in part by rising grocery prices and cost-of-living pressures.
“It’s difficult for a lot of people right now … newcomers, large families, people who never thought they’d need help,” Stoesz said. “We work hard to make this a safe, comfortable space.”
Reducing stigma has long been a priority for the organization, she added.
“We can’t make assumptions and we can’t be judgemental. But for the grace of God go we. This is a place where basic needs can be met.”
The food bank relies heavily on community support, and Stoesz said that support has remained strong.
“We’re incredibly grateful. The churches, schools, businesses, and the general public … if we have a need and we talk about it, it’s met.”
Community members interested in donating, volunteering, or learning more can connect with the food bank through its Facebook and Instagram pages, by email to rhinelandfoodbankinc@gmail.com, or by speaking directly with volunteers during its operating hours.
“We’re just so thankful to live in the community that we do,” Stoesz said.
