Food Banker Spotlight – Eg Walters from Community Food Sharing Association

We are always interested in hearing more about the individuals in food banking across Canada! This month, our spotlight is on Eg Walters from Community Food Sharing Association in St. John’s, Newfoundland.

What is your role in food banking?
I am currently General Manager of The Community Food Sharing Association and have been so since August 1992.

Describe a typical day in one word.
Chaotic.

What was your inspiration to get involved in food banking?
Having been involved with The Masonic Fraternity and The Shriners, getting involved with food banking was a natural extension of their benevolence.

What is your greatest achievement in your current role?
Expanding our association from strictly an East Coast network of 8 food banks to a provincial association consisting of 54 food banks.

What is the greatest challenge in your current role?
Acquiring and distributing quality, nutritious food to help the less fortunate among us throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

If you could have one wish granted that would address hunger in Canada, what would it be?
That food bank users could have sufficient income that they could put their hand in their own pocket and purchase what food they choose with their own hard earned money.

What talent would you most like to have?
To be able to play any musical instrument.

If you could give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
Plan for the future but live for today!

Who are your heroes? Fictional or real life.
Sir Winston Churchill and all search and rescue technicians.

What is your idea of happiness?
To be in good health, a roof over my head and food on the table.

What is your motto?
“Don’t Quit!” I have had that sign hung on my office doorknob for over 25 years.

What’s something quirky about you that others may not expect or know?
I am part of a four man crew who holds the world record for the fastest crossing of the North Atlantic in a 30 ft. power boat from St. John’s, NL to Cape Wrath, Scotland.

What’s your theme song?
“From Little Things Big Things Grow” by Paul Kelly

Do you know a food bank or food banker that could be featured on our next Spotlight? Contact us at communications@foodbankscanada.ca.