The Roots Community Food Centre in Thunder Bay is getting closer to becoming a reality, but they have faced a few delays.

Executive Director Erin Beagle told Acadia News that two factors are slowing things down at its Fort William Road location.

“The vestibule for the new (front) entrance has been dug, and the cement (has been) poured and it’s getting refilled. Once the vestibule is done then they can start making the whole new entrance that has to happen. It’s slower than we had hoped with supplies and materials being the biggest holdup,” added Beagle.

Also on the list of renovations includes adding a dining room, which will allow the opportunity to host community meals for elders and seniors twice a week.

Arrangements have been made in the meantime, while they await the completion of the work.

“We’ll just keep using the partners that we have. We are still doing weekly meals at the Dew Drop Inn for seniors and elders. We are still going to run our market on Limbrick Street, and our weekly one in partnership with the Gull Bay First Nation (Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek),” Beagle said.  “All of our initiatives will continue, it will just be more remote and a little bit more piecemeal. When we are able to do it in-house, it’s going to be more impactful and easier to access for everyone.”

The organization was one of eighteen to receive a financial boost from the District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB) as part of the Food Security Fund.

They received $21,945, which will be used to help with monthly food boxes for newcomers and the refugee community.

It’s hoped the front entrance and dining room will be completed by the fall.