Hydroponic food is growing at the Red Deer Food Bank thanks to a $75,000 grant from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The donation allowed the food bank to purchase a hydroponic sea can, which is now growing fresh produce for the food bank’s hamper program.

“This is a big leap forward for the Red Deer Food Bank, as we can now offer a consistent supply of fresh produce to our clients,” said Mitch Thomson, food bank executive director, in a statement. 

“We receive limited amounts of fresh produce from our grocery partners. Outside of harvest time, it has been extremely difficult for us to provide enough fresh produce to our clients. The development of our hydroponic food production initiatives and greenhouse allow us to be more self sufficient in providing healthy food options for our clientele.”

The food bank purchased the hydroponic business from Mike and Lisa Slimmon of Green Euphoria.

Hydroponic food is growing at the Red Deer Food Bank thanks to a $75,000 grant from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The donation allowed the food bank to purchase a hydroponic sea can, which is now growing fresh produce for the food bank’s hamper program.

“This is a big leap forward for the Red Deer Food Bank, as we can now offer a consistent supply of fresh produce to our clients,” said Mitch Thomson, food bank executive director, in a statement. 

“We receive limited amounts of fresh produce from our grocery partners. Outside of harvest time, it has been extremely difficult for us to provide enough fresh produce to our clients. The development of our hydroponic food production initiatives and greenhouse allow us to be more self sufficient in providing healthy food options for our clientele.”

As food bank usage increases in B.C. amid the cost-of-living crisis, a group is starting to grow lettuce in a Cranbrook city park to encourage healthy and sustainable eating.

The CBC's Corey Bullock went to the farm, which is looking to expand.