Helping those in need

Windsor West Hants Caremongers filling healthy food boxes as gifts

With the rising cost of food, rent, and everyday living expenses, more and more West Hants residents struggle to make ends meet.

That means, for some, forgoing healthy meal options just to keep a roof over their heads.

Leslie Porter, who formed Windsor West Hants Caremongers at the start of the pandemic as a way to connect people in the community with those in need, said volunteers are working hard to make the holidays a bit easier for cashstrapped citizens.

“There’s a lot of stuff going on in the world right now. It’s hard for a lot of people,” said Porter. “It’s not just those folks that are on assistance or disability or pensions. It’s a lot of folks who are trying to work and make a living.”

In 2020, the Caremongers group launched a reverse advent calendar food box program to assist Hants County residents. Through community donations, they provided about 150 boxes, each containing non-perishable food items and fresh fruit and vegetables and frozen meat.

This year, they’re looking to do the same. “The needs have not lessened,” said Porter, noting the high cost of living is affecting more and more people.