The AMS Food Bank is undergoing expansion to better serve the demand for its services, improve logistical operations and better manage the space's temperature.
On July 12, AMS Council approved Phase 1 of the Foodbank Expansion Project using $36,600 from the Capital Funds project to improve the existing space.
Kathleen Simpson, senior manager of student services said “the renovations will make improvements to both the logistical operations of the Food Bank and the student experience for those accessing the Service.”
The funding will be used to knock-down a wall in the Life Building to allow for more square footage, extending the Food Bank into another room.
Simpson said “the renovations will increase the food storage capacity of the space, allow for easier transportation of large volumes of food in and out of the space, and upgrade aging equipment.”
“Several aging fridges will be replaced with a walk-in fridge, carpeting in the space will be removed and air flow will be re-designed to help keep the space cool, despite the high traffic and heat output from the fridge and freezer.”
The space will also help the AMS create an allotted food sorting station for staff and volunteers, which will contribute to the smooth distribution of food items.
For students, the improved flow and expanded maximum capacity will diminish wait time. These conditions are also meant to ease the brunt of summer heat and create a more pleasant experience for students.
Renovations are scheduled to begin July 31 and are expected to be finished by mid-August. During this period, the AMS Food Bank will continue to operate on Monday and Thursday from noon to 7 p.m out of the Interactive Sustainability Centre, which is located in the basement of the Life Building.
Simpson noted “food offerings will remain similar, but we will have a slightly amended menu, as some refrigerated items will not be possible to distribute from the temporary space”.
Phase 2 of the AMS Food Bank Expansion will be coming to Council in the near future and will focus on the addition of a sink and plumbing upgrades.
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