The Regional Emergency Response Council (RERC) is proud to announce a third round of emergency food hampers. Just in time for Thanksgiving, this initiative will support our most vulnerable residents across Cornwall, Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry and Akwesasne.

“Food insecurity is prevalent in our region and this has become even more evident throughout this pandemic.  The Social & Housing Services Department is pleased to support the Regional Emergency Response Committee’s October Food Hamper.  This funding has been made possible through the Provincial Social Services Relief Fund.”  Mellissa Morgan, Manager of Social and Housing Services Department.

If you or someone you know is in need of a little extra support this October please phone 613-930-4892 ext 253. Leave a detailed message with your name, phone number, full address, and how many people live in your household. Someone will return your call to complete the self-referral process. The deadline to call and register is Thursday October 1.

“We are collaborating with many community agencies who work with vulnerable clients to identify those who are in need of assistance. However, we know that not everyone struggling from food insecurity is linked with an agency. We want to ensure everyone in need has an opportunity to receive this extra support.” Carilyne Hébert, Executive Director of the Social Development Council of Cornwall and Area.

This latest round of emergency food support will take place the week of October 5th at the Cornwall Civic Complex thanks to a partnership with the City of Cornwall. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Stephanie at [email protected] or leave a message at 613-930-4892 ext 253.

“The current effects of COVID-19 are being felt on a social level.  We are conscious that many people are still feeling the financial impact of layoffs and reduced hours and may not be able to afford groceries or pay all of their current bills.  The opportunity to work collaboratively with the many partners of the RERC on this project and ensure that no one is going without food is a project that aligns  with our organizational values” Juliette Labossière, ED UWC SDG

The RERC is a collaboration co-chaired by The United Way/Centraide SDG and the Social Development Council of Cornwall and Area. This RERC’s purpose is to evaluate and define the community’s pressing needs during a time of crisis. The Council composed of over 20 agencies, non-profits, and service clubs, representing the various sectors of service throughout Cornwall, the Counties, and Akwesasne, has been addressing the most pressing social needs that our community has faced during this pandemic.