The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) has partnered with Food Banks of Saskatchewan to focus on raising funds for children and their families that struggle with food insecurity.

The “Food to Learn” campaign aims to raise $44,000, representing the 44,000 people Food Banks of Saskatchewan serves monthly.

Michael Kincade, the executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan, said that the partnership comes at a great time.

“We are seeing an increased demand and a decreased amount of donors and help to come in, so it’s been putting a strain on us.”

“The last year or so, we’ve been seeing an increase in the people needing to sue the food banks with the high cost of living, high cost of gas, food, everything seems to be rising, and we are seeing people using food banks that normally haven’t used them. Working families that just can’t make ends meet anymore.”

Last year, the Food Banks of Saskatchewan saw a 37 percent increase in usage, with 40 percent of the people who access food bank services being youth under 18.

STF President Samantha Becotte said to kick off the campaign, STF donated $20,000.

“We want to raise awareness of the situation that many Saskatchewan families are facing,” she said. “We know how important access to nutritional food is for student learning. With food prices soaring and many students not having access to school nutrition programs over the summer, we are very grateful to partner with Food Banks of Saskatchewan and support their vital work in communities across the province.”

Kincade added that the money should allow food banks to buy items that aren’t generally donated.

To donate to the “Food to Learn” campaign, visit the Food Banks of Saskatchewan website.