Root Cellar looking for donations, volunteers as Holiday Season ramps up

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on December 10, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

With the Holiday Season and the rest of winter coming up, the Root Cellar is preparing for a continued increase in demand.

Historically, January is one of the busiest times in regards to need for services, executive director Melissa Mullis says. However, as cost of living has continued to rise, she notes there have not been as many seasonal dips and surges as there once were.

“We are seeing roughly 4,000 people a month, right now,” said Mullis. “For perspective, that’s a 440% increase since 2019.”

While the Root Cellar is grateful to be able to help those in the community who need it, Mullis says that seeing this steady increase continues to be a concerning factor as food bank staff and volunteers work to keep up with demand.

“We’re definitely always in need of donations. We want to make sure that we have enough food on the shelves for everybody that needs it,” said Mullis. “So definitely, we’re always looking for donations of cash and food – that really helps go a long way.”

Those looking to contribute as part of their own holidays are encouraged to send funds either in person or via e-transfer, though the Root Cellar doesn’t currently recommend mailing in donations due to the postal strike.

For residents inclined to donate food directly, says Mullis, the Root Cellar website not only details key staples that they always try to keep in stock, but also “wish list” items that are less commonly donated.

“Our wish list is mostly things like crackers, or condiments. Toiletries and things like that. You know, that’s not something that is always donated, but it’s still really appreciated,” said Mullis. “Alternatively, we always need help. So if anybody you know wants to volunteer, we can absolutely use their help as well.”

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