1 Year, 5 Branches, 50 Volunteers and 38,000 Lunch
Halifax Public Libraries
Innovation Synopsis
When you think of a public library, historically a space where food was banned, do you imagine a collaborative partner in the fight against food insecurity? Most likely not, but a Library in Halifax, Nova Scotia is doing just that and increased capacity during COVID-19. In one year, HPL delivered 38,000+ healthy lunches to communities in need.
Challenge/Opportunity
Libraries encounter brilliant moments & demanding challenges daily. One challenge HPL refuses to ignore is food insecurity. Our community is one of the most food insecure cities in Canada; in some neighborhoods, one in two children are hungry, limiting their potential and overall health.As a result, food programs have become a regular part of library programming. When COVID-19 shut Library doors, the need for food access increased to unprecedented levels. To tackle hunger, the Library had to reach people in new ways.
Key Elements of Innovation
In one year, staff and volunteers worked together to deliver 38,000+ healthy lunches. Typically, lunches were provided on a grab and go basis in branches where we saw the most need. When libraries were closed, staff were redirected to support a new delivery model, programming spaces were converted to prep areas and volunteers were recruited to help pack thousands of lunches. The act of making and serving the packs connected youth, adults, and seniors at a time when many were experiencing a deep sense of social isolation.
Achieved Outcomes
In addition to providing 38,000+ lunch packs and involving 50 volunteers of all ages, the Community Lunch Project has lasting value.
- The library will continue the food volunteer program, expanding the involvement of community members in other food initiatives.
- Library staff now have specific equipment for continuing food-related programming.
