The Wood Buffalo Food Bank is close to opening a new location downtown.

The non-profit has been operating out of two temporary sites after their building was flooded during April’s flood.

The newly purchased location is larger and will help with more storage as well as allow them to run additional programs to help the community.

“Up until the flood we were renting extra warehouse space in addition to our main building just so we could ensure enough stock on hand to provide hampers,” said Dan Edwards, Executive Director.

The food bank has continued to see the need across the region rise since 2013. Just this year, they’ve seen an average of 50 new households a month accessing their services.

“It’s no secret that our community has endured many struggles for the better part of this last decade, and while we’ve continued to serve our region throughout this time it hasn’t come without some extra measures on our end,” added Edwards.

The location will be located near the old building on King St.

Organizations will also be able to use some of the space for meetings or need to use a commercial kitchen.

It’s expected to be up and running sometime in 2021.

Those who are in need of support can contact the food bank through their website.