Food Banker Spotlight – Sarah Norman of the St. George and Area Food Bank

We are always interested in hearing more about the individuals in food banking across Canada! This month, our spotlight is on Sarah Norman, of the St. George and Area Food Bank in Saint George, New Brunswick.

What is your role in food banking?
I am the first staff person of the St. George and Area Food Bank, a food bank that serves approximately 120 families each month, with 11 programs and services.

Describe a typical day in one word.
Atypical 🙂

What was your inspiration to get involved in food banking?
I worked for an organization that ran a food bank as a side program. Honestly, I didn’t even know our town had a food bank! Being there often, I saw small things that I knew I could “fix”, and make things better for those who needed the service. Before I knew it, our food bank had grown twice its size in both space and numbers!

What is your greatest achievement in your current role?
I have lots of them, but they are not just mine. I feel so enlightened when I see families who no longer need our services, and instead, are helping us to provide for others.

What is your greatest challenge in your current role?
Understanding why there are so many hungry people to begin with.

If you could have one wish granted that would address hunger in Canada what would it be?
That there was less stigma associated with hunger and food banks. Anyone of us could end up hungry tomorrow, food banks are here for a reason!

Which talent would you most like to have?
Musical abilities would be nice, that way I could keep up with the rest of my family.

If you could tell your younger self advice, what would it be?
Expect the unexpected.

Who are your heroes? Fictional or real life.
Anyone that pushes the limits of what is “normal”.

What is your idea of happiness?
Spending time with family, preferably outdoors by a campfire.

What is your motto?
Not sure that I have one, I constantly tell myself “You won’t know, until you try” – does that count?

Something quirky about you that others may not expect or know?
I have one pinky that is much longer than the other.

Your theme song?
Won’t Back Down by Tom Petty.

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