Since the first Canadian food bank opened its doors 31 years ago, the institution has multiplied exponentially.
Today, more than 800 banks operate nationally, despite the fact they were originally intended only as a stop gap measure during a recession.
Most are operated by volunteers and faith groups, serving 867,000 people.
Faith in Action, an organization representing many faith groups, is launching a debate as to whether food banks represent a duty to the poor or just mask the need for more equitable approach to income disparity.
The talk is called Food Banks: An Idea Whose Time is Past? Presenters include researchers, food bank managers and clients. It takes place Sunday (Feb. 19) from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 1273 Fort St. Email: info@victoriafaithinaction.ca