Salvation Army temporarily closes Sarnia food bank due to critical shortage

The Salvation Army food bank in Sarnia has temporarily closed after rising demand and depleted supplies left the organization unable to continue regular service.

The Salvation Army in Sarnia has temporarily closed its Confederation Street food bank after supplies became critically depleted.

The closure was announced earlier this week after increasing demand, fewer donations and depleted reserve funds left the organization unable to provide its usual food support to clients.

The food bank is expected to remain closed until Monday, June 9, while the organization works to rebuild its supply levels through community donations.

The Salvation Army food bank serves individuals and families through pre-packed food boxes and scheduled 15-minute appointments. The appointment model allows staff to connect with clients, discuss other available supports and help identify additional needs.

The food bank typically operates Tuesday to Friday, with 12 appointments scheduled each day. In recent weeks, all appointment slots have been fully booked, with the food bank serving an average of about 150 people per week.

Demand has increased to the point that same-day or last-minute appointments are no longer available, and clients have had to book up to a week in advance.

The organization has also seen some former donors become clients, reflecting the growing pressure food insecurity is placing on households across the community.

Reserve funds normally used to supplement food purchases have also been depleted. The Salvation Army said the decision to temporarily close was made after supplies dropped too low to provide clients with a meaningful level of support.

The closure comes as Sarnia’s Inn of the Good Shepherd has also recently announced limits on the number of people who can access its food bank each day, further highlighting the growing strain on local food support services.

The Salvation Army is asking the community to help replenish food bank shelves so service can resume as planned.

Urgently needed items include canned meats and fish, peanut butter, canned soups and stews, cereal, oatmeal, pasta and pasta sauce.

Donations can be dropped off at 970 Confederation St. on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The organization said all donations will directly support people and families in Sarnia who are struggling to put food on the table.