We are always interested in hearing more about the individuals in food banking across Canada! This month, our spotlight is on Chrissie Roberts of East Wellington Community Services in Erin, ON.

What is your role in food banking?
I am a Supervisor for both of our food banks located in Erin and Rockwood, ON.

Describe a typical day in one word.
Rewarding!

What was your inspiration to get involved in food banking?
I grew up in this community and have seen that there was a need to help my neighbours. The impact that East Wellington Community Services has had on the community has been huge. This was a way I could give back!

What is your greatest achievement in your current role?
In 2018, we won the OAFB (Ontario Association of Food Banks) Innovators Award. This was given to a food bank who they believe takes an innovative approach to community engagement and service in their community.

What is the greatest challenge in your current role?
Like every not-for-profit, the biggest challenge is finding funding to keep our programs open. Working in a rural community, affordable housing is very limited. We would like to help clients be able to afford their bills and not have to rely on a food bank.

If you could have one wish granted that would address hunger in Canada, what would it be?
I would wish that “busy” days at the food bank did not exist and that people living in poverty had more income to cover their day-to-day needs.

What talent would you most like to have?
I’d like to be able to pause or stop time. Life goes by too fast these days.

If you could tell your younger self some advice, what would it be?
I’d say, “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Take it one day at a time and listen to your parents!”

Who are your heroes? Fictional or real life.
My heroes are those who help our food bank at Christmas. We would not be able to fill our Christmas baskets of gifts and food without our community. Everyone can be a hero!

What is your idea of happiness?
Happiness isn’t about how much money you have but instead, it’s about spending time with those who love you for who you are. Spending time with your family and friends!

What is your motto?
Appreciate what you have!

What’s something quirky about you that others may not expect or know?
It’s something I don’t admit to everyone but I know the lyrics or dance moves to every Spice Girls song. My best friend and I would dance in my parent’s bay window and pretend we were on stage.

What’s your theme song?
“Whatever It Takes” by Imagine Dragons is my favourite song right now. My theme song would have to be The Golden Girls theme song, “Thank You for Being a Friend” by Andrew Gold.

Do you know a food bank or food banker that could be featured on our next Spotlight? Contact us at communications@foodbankscanada.ca.