The Aylmer Food Centre is open for Aylmer

Since the beginning of the pandemic, all people have to adapt every day to new guidelines, new restrictions, new ways of doing things. The Aylmer Food Centre is no exception.

Since March 16, the organization has been hard hit, and has had to make constant adjustments to continue to meet demand. The most difficult thing for the Centre was undoubtedly the loss of all volunteers, in accordance with Premier Legault’s instructions, because of their advanced age. They left “with a broken heart,” said Gérard Émond, director of the Food Centre. Fortunately, thanks to a great collaboration with Moisson Outaouais, which has a volunteer bank, the Food Centre’s needs in this regard have been met.

The remaining employees, four in total at the time of writing, are all vulnerable to the virus in one way or another (age, personal health, spouse’s health, etc.). In order to protect these precious resources, for the past week, the safety of the premises is ensured by carrying out a complete disinfection every day. In addition, in order to limit contact and respect social distancing guidelines, the Centre has set up an appointment system, where clients have to call the Centre specifying the day and time when they would like to pick up their food. When they arrive, they have to wait outside to take possession of their bag. So far, this system has worked well, according to Mr. Émond.

The director of the Centre anticipates a sharp increase in demand in the coming days, due to people experiencing a decrease or a total loss of income. On a regular day, about 50 families come to pick up food. In the event that this number doubles or triples due to the circumstances, the Centre will need assistance because it is hanging by a thread at this time. “CISSSO has confirmed its support for any additional expenses that may be generated by this situation”, said Mr. Émond. While hoping there won’t be any abuse, he concludes by sending a message to the people of Aylmer affected by the pandemic: “We will not leave anyone in need. We will endeavour to respond to all requests for assistance. Everything’s going to be fine, Aylmer.”