P.E.I. monks helping with Montague food bank shortfall

When monks at the Great Enlightenment Buddhist Institute Society heard about donations falling short at a Montague food bank, they took the opportunity to help out and give back to the community.

The monks' plan is to raise money by selling strawberries they grow for $5 per box and rolls at the Little Sands campus, explained Venerable Dan, a monk with the society. He explained that 50 boxes are available for sale beginning Friday, July 22.

"Every day we get to study here, we get to practice Buddhism here due to the kindness of the Island. It's just a way to show our appreciation," Dan said.

Donation shortfall

The money raised from the strawberry sales will go to the Southern Kings and Queens Food Bank in Montague. While the annual Tim Horton's summer food drive did well in Charlottetown, the same can't be said for Montague, according to Marlene Power, the food bank's secretary treasurer.

"We got exactly 55 pounds of food and we give out an average of 9,000 pounds every month. So, you can see the 55 (pounds) doesn't come anywhere near what is required," Power said.

Community help

Despite the shortfall, Power believes the community will come through for the food bank.

"I know it's hard for a lot of people because of the price of groceries and whatnot. But there are people that can afford to give and they certainly do," Power said.

To help raise money, the food bank will be selling hamburgers and hot dogs at its Montague location on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

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