BANFF – Some of Banff’s most vulnerable people are getting free meals delivered to their homes thanks to the generosity and community spirit of one Banff’s landmark restaurants.
The Grizzly House, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2018, laid off about 56 employees, but managed to keep about eight core staff on the payroll when it closed its doors temporarily almost two weeks ago due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have this restaurant infrastructure and we were trying to think of something to do that is safe and beneficial,” said Francis Hopkins, general manager of the Grizzly House.
“We came up with the idea to offer free meals to people in need in the community.”
The program launched on March 26, in partnership with the Town of Banff, and predominantly targets Banff’s senior residents, but others too, who may find it difficult to get out to pick up groceries.
“We approached the Town to see if they could help because we needed a liaison between us and the people in need,” said Hopkins.
“We initially suggested seniors because I feel like seniors are probably the most vulnerable right now; it can be tough for them to get out.”
Currently, the Grizzly House is delivering to about 46 people, mostly at Mount Edith House, every other day. The menu can change, but meals typically are traditional favourites such as roast chicken, mashed potatoes and homemade bread.
“I checked in with the health inspector before we put this plan in place because we don’t want to put anyone at risk,” said Hopkins, noting they got the all clear to move ahead with the program last week.
“The service is kind of a ‘ding and drop’ with the door bell or a phone call. Some people live in buildings where we leave food in the lobby and for others we drop it right outside their door.”
Hopkins said the program would not be up and running without the support of the Town of Banff.
“Banff has shrivelled inside in the last two weeks and it’s obvious what’s left is the community,” he said.
“It’s an opportunity to help people who seem to really appreciate it.”
Shawn Carr, manager of social programs with Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) in Banff, said they were pleased when the Grizzly House reached out.
“We automatically defaulted to seniors, and checked in with seniors at Edith House,” he said, noting the service has become very popular.
“A few other vulnerable families were identified, whether they were having to self-isolate and were stuck at home, so we also wanted to provide some support to them.”
Carr said the Town continues to evaluate demand in the community as a result of COVID-19.
“We continue to provide support services and get in contact with individuals who are vulnerable or in need,” he said.
“Our role has been to connect individuals with businesses looking to provide those services, like the Grizzly House, and there’s probably going to be more good news stories coming.”
For those businesses wanting to help the community, the Town of Banff asks that they email [email protected], while individuals needing help and support during this pandemic can email [email protected].
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