The Inn of the Good Shepherd's executive director is "thrilled" with the organization's latest accomplishment in receiving accreditation through Food Banks Canada’s Standards of Excellence program.
Jack Christine called it a major milestone.
"I'm proud as well. It's a great reflection. I know the staff and the volunteers have put a lot of work into this," he said.
Food Banks Canada's Standards of Excellence program was introduced in 2024, providing a framework for food banks and community agencies to follow.
Christine said the lengthy process to become accredited involved showing compliance in various areas, including governance, people management, food operations and food safety.
"It basically sets a benchmark for us to sort of reflect where we are with our quality of service that we provide to the clients that we serve through the food bank," he said. "Also, a baseline for the organization as well, to comply with these standards."
Christine said it will be an ongoing effort to ensure the organization meets a certain standard and any new obligations that are introduced in the future.
"It gives us this sort of baseline to build on and improve," he said.
The Inn supports 2,200 individuals each month, including nearly 900 children.
