Newark Neighbours is suspending shopping and drop-offs until April 6 in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“To all our valued customers and food bank clients, the health and safety and comfort of our volunteers, customers and food bank clients is our number one priority. The growing concerns regarding COVID-19 pandemic is an important health matter, and one that Newark Neighbours is taking seriously,” said vice-chair Suzanne Vaillant, in an email to The Lake Report.

“At this time, we feel it necessary to suspend shopping and drop offs until April 6th. We will re-evaluate at that time. Our drop-off bins will be locked until further notice – Please do not leave donations around on the ground as they will only go into the garbage which is a cost to Newark Neighbours.”

While drop-offs are closed, Vaillant says the food bank will remain open.

“Our priority is our food bank. We hope to be able to have no disruption in service for our clients. We are working on a plan to safely accept food donations and to be able to ensure our clients do not go hungry during this Pandemic.”

Food Room Clients: The Food Room will be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 to 2 p.m.

Anyone in need of services is advised to phone the food bank at 905-468-3519 and leave a message.

“We appreciate and value the generosity of our community for your donations which allows us to continue our mission of serving our community with compassion, care and concern,” Vaillant said.

“Making this mission a reality would not be possible without all of our volunteers whose time and effort we greatly appreciate.”