Hunger is a problem 365 days a year. Every month, about 14,000 people access the food bank and its member agencies for a hand up during difficult times.
The only way the Sudbury Food Bank can keep up with demands is through the help of generous Sudburians.
During the summer, the Vale Concert Series is a valuable partner to the food bank.
Dan Xilon, administrator of the food bank, said the summer concert series brought in $17,000 for food in its inaugural year, “which is spectacular.”
This year, he is once again looking forward to some of the best in Canadian folk music, for a good cause.
“The audiences have been incredibly supportive,” he said. “The community is really warming up to the summer concert series.”
The shows, which take place once a month throughout the summer, are free to the public. All organizers want is a donation to the food bank.
“The price is perfect,” Xilon said.
For as little as a donation, the community is treated to a quality show.
On June 19, Pear is playing at the Grace Hartman Amphitheatre at 7 p.m. Named group of the year at the 2013 Association of Country Music Awards in Alberta, Pear is currently enjoying radio success nationally.
They have opened for the likes of Alan Jackson, Alanis Morrisette, Tim McGraw and the Barenaked Ladies.
Bob Bale, who produces the concert series, said he is thrilled by the sense of community the concerts provide.
“Last year, we witnessed the power of many people putting their hands and hearts together,” he said.
Other upcoming shows include:
The Morgan Davis Band – July 17 – This Juno blues winner has spent the last four decades on the road, touring worldwide. He gained international recognition when Colin James covered his ballad "Why'd You Lie". Davis will be joined on stage by Alex Fraser (Jeff Healey's bassit) and Mark Mariash (Ron Sexsmith's drummer).
Dala – Aug. 14 – Considered part of the “super elite” folk/pop acts in Canada, Dala has gained fame worldwide after a 2009 performance at the Newport Festival. Since then, they've been called the Vocal Group of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards.
Lennie Gallant – Sept. 11 – A Francophone songwriter, Gallant earned a host of awards and nominations from both the East Coast Music Awards and the Junos. His album "When We Get There" accompanied astronauts on the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 2009.
