PotashCorp helping food bank efforts

Recently Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc. (PotashCorp) launched a $1 million matching gift campaign to support the province's food banks. The company will match every dollar donated to food banks in Saskatchewan through January 15, 2014 up to a maximum of $1 million.

Since 2010 the annual matching gift campaigns, combined with PotashCorp's support, have raised over $6.5 million to feed hungry individuals and families at a total of 35 food banks across the province.

Lee Knafelc, PotashCorp's Vice President, Human Resources and Administration launched the campaign at the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre and reiterated the company's commitment to having an impact on food security on a local level.

"We recognize that food security isn't just an issue for communities overseas. Our neighbors in communities across this province also worry about feeding their families," said Knafelc. "Saskatchewan's food banks know this all too well and PotashCorp is pleased to play a role in building our community by supporting the campaign again this year."

"The impact PotashCorp has on our organizations and our communities is substantial. From helping food banks to provide a higher quality and quantity of food to improving programs and services, PotashCorp has been by our side for the past four years, making a difference right here at home," said Laurie O'Connor, Executive Director of the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre.

"We are proud to be associated with PotashCorp because the company recognizes that food security is a shared responsibility that begins in our own communities. With this campaign, people across the province rally around food banks and support local food security efforts. We look forward to another successful holiday matching gift campaign!" said O'Connor.

According to the HungerCount 2013 report, there has been a 26.6 percent increase in food bank usage in Saskatchewan since 2008. In addition, 43.8 percent of individuals assisted by the province's food banks are children.

"PotashCorp's matching gift campaign makes a huge impact in helping the Food Banks of Saskatchewan feed hungry people. First, this campaign provides much needed funds to food banks during the Christmas season, when the need is great. Secondly, it encourages residents of Saskatchewan to donate, knowing that the benefit to their local food bank is multiplied," said Bill Hall, Executive Director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan.

The funds raised through the campaign will help food banks across the province buy supplies and equipment, restock shelves and support the province's vulnerable citizens with programs and services.