Ann Moore, Vancouver Food Runners Volunteer
VFR: Please tell us about yourself.
Ann Moore: I am a retired research nurse having worked in the mental health and palliative care areas, doing research work for psychologists and psychiatrists. Presently, I perform civil marriage ceremonies and the number of weddings in which I have participated now totals over 7800.
How did you get involved with Vancouver Food Runners?
I read an article about VFR and instantly wanted to be involved with this organization and signed up right away.
What makes volunteering with Vancouver Food Runners special and why is it important to you?
The fact that COVID restrictions didn't prohibit volunteering with VFR, plus the flexibility of the work, was instantly appealing. Being able to check the dates and times of the rescues, and their locations, made it easy to choose which pick-ups and deliveries I could manage. My other volunteer work, i.e., Vancouver Hospice, school literacy program and a dog rescue society, had all been put on hold because of COVID and I hadn't been able to find a substitute until I came across the article.
Which food run is your favourite?
I'm not sure I have a favourite run - I enjoy all of them. I pick-up smaller rescues, as my car is a Mini, and I am unable to do the runs which require a large vehicle. I've done Terra Ann Moore VOLUNTEER EXTRAORDINAIRE MARRIAGE COMMISSIONER RETIRED NURSE Spotlight: Breads, Patisserie Lebeau, Viva, Pizza's, Matchstick, Moore's Bakery, Bean Around the World, Grounds for Coffee, Pane e Formaggio.
What has been your best volunteer "moment" so far?
My best moments all have to do with the 'thank you's' I receive - not only from the donors who are so grateful they do not have to throw their food away, to the receivers who have clients who would otherwise not have enough food, or who would not get the little luxuries such as muffins, tarts, cinnamon buns, etc. Everyone is SO grateful for this service.
Would you recommend volunteering with Vancouver Food Runners to others and why?
DEFINITELY - I would recommend anyone joining VFR! The time involved can be as little or as much as you have time for. You can request a rescue once/twice a week or once/twice a month and if for any circumstance you cannot do your scheduled run, because a commitment has come up (holiday, Dr's appt, etc.), you can always request a sub. Food is a basic right and too many people are not receiving enough of it and it pains me that so much perfectly good food is wasted and/or thrown away, either for lack of caring or because there are not enough organizations such as VFR who have taken on the task of helping to rectify this dilemma. I truly believe that there is a spark within each of us that yearns to be helpful to others and who are searching for ways in which to do so. My hat is off to VFR who offers such a service.
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