City police say they’re getting more calls about people stealing food

Police also noted that these thefts have been happening at many of the city’s grocery stores.

Secondiak says at the beginning of January they had some shoplifting offenses but it was standard, with about 9 the first two weeks of January.

That then doubled in the second part of January with 21 and 15 so far in February.

“It’s tragic actually, and it’s a snapshot into our current economy and the state of affairs due to restrictions from the pandemic,” he added.

Retailers and police have focused on recovering the stolen items while also informing the individuals about local resources available to help them. Including the Food Bank, Women’s Shelter, and local churches.

Secondiak says a lot of the calls are people who are trying to provide for their families.

“When we look at the intent behind some of these types of crimes, we understand that people are just struggling to survive,” he said.

Executive Director of the Medicine Hat & District Food Bank Celina Symmonds says there is no need to feel like you ever have to go hungry.

She says accessing food bank services is a very quick process.

It’s open to everyone and they will not ask about income.

Just give them a call, they’ll phone back in 24 hours, and you will have food the next day.

Symmonds says the food bank has been returning about 150 phone calls.

“I think sometimes people feel like they can’t come to the food bank because they feel like they’re taking it away from another family if they access food bank services. But the truth is we have enough for everyone. People can come here and there’s no shame attached to coming to the food bank. You can use it today then when you get back on your feet you can give back. So please come and see us, we want to help and we’re ready and willing to help,” Symmonds told Chat News.

On Friday alone, 88 families accessed food bank services and they hand out between 500-700 brown bag lunches every day to children.

Police suggest if you or someone you know is struggling and in need of assistance please call the Food Bank at 403-528-4313 Ext1 and leave a message.

Foodbank staff will respond to you with a pickup or delivery time.

Additionally, the Brown Bag Lunch Program is available through an online portal at www.mhfoodbank.com

by Brian Konrad/Chantal Wagner

City police say they’re getting more calls about people stealing food

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