At DAO Pantry, our mission has always been to provide essential support to those in need within the 2SLGBTQI+ community and beyond. Since our inception in September 2021, we have proudly served over 10,000 visits, working tirelessly to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry. However, we are currently facing a significant challenge that has led us to make a difficult decision.
Unprecedented Demand and Our Current Capacity
In recent months, we have seen an unprecedented increase in the number of individuals and families seeking our services. While it is heartening to know that more people are turning to DAO Pantry for support, it has also placed a tremendous strain on our resources. Despite our best efforts, our current capacity can no longer keep up with the rising demand.
Temporary Suspension of New Client Intake
As a result, we have had to make the tough decision to temporarily suspend the intake of new clients. This decision was not made lightly, but it is necessary to ensure that we can continue to provide high-quality service to our existing clients. We understand the frustration and concern this may cause for those who are seeking assistance, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.
Our Commitment to Finding Solutions
Please know that we are actively working to find solutions to this challenge. Our team is exploring all available options to increase our capacity, secure additional resources, and enhance our ability to serve more people in the future. We are committed to keeping you updated on our progress and will provide timely announcements as soon as we can resume new client intake.
Alternative Resources and Support
In the meantime, we encourage those in immediate need of assistance to reach out to other local food banks and community services. You can find a comprehensive list of food banks in the Durham Region through Feed the Need in Durham. This resource can help you locate the nearest available support during this period.
Thank You for Your Understanding and Support
We want to express our deepest gratitude to our community members, volunteers, and donors for your continued support. Your generosity and dedication have always been the backbone of DAO Pantry, and we are confident that, together, we can navigate this challenging time.
Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work towards better serving our community.
DAO Pantry Team