More funding has been set aside to help with food security for the province.

Premier Ball announced $500,000 for FoodFirstNL to provide food to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who are experiencing food insecurity amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Premier says government has added another $60,000 for a total of $560,000, in addition to the $220,000 that government has already allocated through the budget.

Through this funding, Ball says FoodFirstNL established a community fund.

The Premier says this means government is able to provide immediate resources to eligible community food programs to continue to safely offer services across the province.

He says so far they’ve received 150 applications, and groups will be notified in the coming days.

In addition to this fund, Ball says they’re in discussions with over 40 community groups to solve food insecurity.

Community Groups Coming Together to Fight Food Insecurity

Meanwhile, other community groups are taking the initiative to fight food insecurity as well.

Premier Ball says many community partners and people are making every effort to ensure residents have access to essentials including food.

Groups like the School Lunch Program and the St. John’s Farmer’s Market have partnered with FoodFirstNL and Choices for Youth.

Ball says they will be removing food that the school program has on hand and bringing it to the Farmer’s Market where it will be stored. The food will go to places like the Gathering Place, Stella’s Circle and Choices for Youth to provide meals to their guests.

He claims they’re also working with SeniorsNL to make food available to seniors and those with disabilities in the province.