CAMBRIDGE, Ont. – Less than a week after an arson damaged condensers that impacted a walk-in cooler a freezer, the Cambridge Food Bank is back up and running as normal.
On April 8 at approximately 8:30 p.m., Waterloo regional police responded to a report of a commercial fire at the food bank. After a brief investigation, they arrested and charged a 30-year-old male with arson.
The incident forced staff to scramble as they attempted to save roughly $10,000 worth of food being stored in the two units. Fortunately, the work and some quick thinking paid off.
"Very little was lost to waste as we worked throughout the night to move the product to the smaller retail fridges and freezers," Dianne McLeod, executive director of the Cambridge Food Bank, said.
"In the morning, we connected with our meal program partners and offered them frozen products like large boxes of chicken. We pushed milk, eggs and produce through our programs quickly as storage space was limited."
McLeod said roughly $14,000 in damage was done but she'll have exact costs in the coming days, some of which should be covered by insurance.
"I'm still waiting for the condenser invoice," she said.
"He said around $5,000 but I think installation is on top of that. Then the other repairs to melted wires are another $7,000. We'll have a better idea of actual charges this week."
Concern over the potential costs of both equipment and food waste were eased thanks to strong support from the community, which McLeod called "amazing."
Due North, a refrigeration company based in Brampton, donated two new coolers and freezers upon hearing about the fire. The units have been used to replace older ones that needed frequent repairs.
"Many community members stopped by with fresh fruit and vegetables that were distributed immediately via our emergency hamper program," McLeod said.
"There was an outpouring of support from many businesses, individuals and service clubs. We live in an incredibly generous community."
The food bank's spring food drive is getting underway and its encouraging residents to run their own.
As summer approaches it's common for donations to slow down considerably, placing increased importance on fundraising efforts.
"We would appreciate those who are able to consider running a food drive for us in their school, business, neighbourhood or faith community," McLeod said.
For more information on the Cambridge Food Bank visit cambridgefoodbank.org.