03/03/2026
The first resource that we recommend to every struggling low-income client is Nanaimo’s Loaves & Fishes Community Food Bank .
Sometimes, these clients have objections to using the Food Bank.
They are not physically able to stand in a line.
They become anxious from the noise.
They are immune compromised and avoid crowds.
They have small children and can’t spend a long time waiting for their turn.
Generally, these clients have only attended or heard about drop-in food bank locations. While drop-in locations meet the needs of a lot of people, they aren’t the best fit for everyone.
A better option for some are the appointment only locations.
I have previously written about the differences between drop-in and appointment visits.
https://pananaimo.ca/2024/04/24/food-bank-drop-in-vs-appts/
With an appointment, you arrive at your designated time. In my experience, there is generally only a wait of a few minutes to begin your free “shop”.
Lineups are minimal because everyone is showing up for their appointment time and flowing through the food selection process in an orderly and efficient fashion.
When I go to my own food bank appointments, I am generally in and out within about 25 minutes.
There is a lot of demand for these food bank appointments. The earlier you can book, the more likely it is that you will be able to secure a spot. Appointments open up on the website exactly eight days ahead.
https://www.vifoodbank.org/nanaimo-individuals
For example, if you wish to attend a food bank location on a Monday at 1pm, bookings would open 8 days earlier on Sunday at 1pm. Then more at 1:10pm, 1:20pm and so on.
We are so fortunate to have Loaves & Fishes as a valuable community resource, and I am grateful that they offer different options for food support for people with varied needs.
https://pananaimo.ca/2025/01/21/why-book-a-food-bank-appointment/
