Food bank offering halal food seeks indoor home before winter

Whitby Specialty Food Bank, which provides halal food and other options for people with special dietary needs, is seeking an indoor home before winter, CBC News and CP24 reported on November 3.

Founder and coordinator Marcia White said many volunteers are seniors and may not be able to continue working outside in the cold. Without suitable indoor space, the organization could have to reduce the food it distributes, the reports said.

The food bank operates in Scarborough while serving residents across Durham Region. White told CBC that it serves about 85 families and 50 organizations weekly. The food bank's own website lists its current address as 801 Progress Avenue in Scarborough and says it serves people regardless of their religious beliefs.

The organization is looking for a warehouse of at least 10,000 square feet in Durham Region, ideally donated or available through a long-term, low-cost lease. CP24 reported that the search focuses on Whitby or possibly Ajax. No new location or moving date was announced in the reports.

CBC said its food options include gluten-free, lactose-free, diabetic-friendly, kosher, halal, vegan and vegetarian food.