The organization provides more than 20,000 people monthly with food hampers. With the help of more than 230 agencies, churches and food depots, nearly half a million meals and snacks are distributed to needy recipients annually. Some 40 per cent of people served are under 18.That the five acts playing at A Christmas Peril willingly donated their services in lieu of payment was a gesture that impressed Parrott, who didn’t hesitate to throw his hat into the charity ring.
“One thing that absolutely blew me away was the willingness of everybody to come together and pitch in this season,” he said.
Edmonton’s Food Bank will accept most consumable donations as long as they’re non-perishable, although there’s a degree of urgency for some basic culinary staples that conform to suggested requirements provided by Canada’s Food Guide. Items most needed include cans of beans with or without pork, canned fish or meat, baby formula, peanut butter (in 500 kg. jars), school snacks (preferably juice boxes, granola bars and fruit cups), soup, canned fruit or vegetables and pasta and pasta sauce.
Donors who show up with an item at the show will not have to pay an admission fee. Instead they’ll be treated to an array of live entertainment that runs the gamut from roots to random improvisation. The only common link between most of the performers will be a gracious nod towards helping the hungry.
“We are especially grateful to be involved in A Christmas Peril Edmonton Food Bank benefit,” says Trevor DePagie, bassist for S’sE Sessions, which has spent much of the year working on an arts piece for CBC, creating film scores and putting together a video series that features the band collaborating with other local experimentalists.
“In a year where we have been fortunate there are always others out there that could use a little help. This is an opportunity to give back, an opportunity to share in a different way.”
-- Holly Stevens