Iyahrhe Nakoda Foodbank Society

The Iyahrhe Nakoda Food Bank Society services the Stoney Nakoda Community members of the Bearspaw, Chiniki and Wesley bands in the communities of Morley, Eden Valley and Big Horn (deliveries and pick up only). Currently we have two food banks in Morley and Eden Valley. According to the Canada 2011 Census the total population of the Nakoda people is 3494. Currently we service approximately 42% of the total population. Due to limited economic opportunity and limited education, many in the community must depend on social programming as a way of life. The rural community does not have a grocery store, and those without transportation are limited to what they are able to obtain for nutritious food. The food bank has become a necessity to many to feed their families throughout the year.

With the devastation of the June floods of 2013, the food bank played a pivotal role within the Nakoda community to distribute donated food to its people. Approximately 4500 hampers were provided monthly during the flood period. After the flood period ended in mid-August many Nakoda families are still depending upon the services of the food bank. Comparing our food bank usage statistics of January of 2014 to January 2013, the food bank is providing an increase of 25% of food hamper assistance.