AFB Clients:
I deal with, and oversee, the operation of AFB branches in three provinces in my spare time – while working 60+ hours a week to help fund AFB and it’s operations. We aren’t eligible, nor do we receive, any funding from anyone.
We have amazing Branch Managers, all volunteers and unpaid, who are the reason that inventory flows into and out of each location. They do this in their spare time, while working full time jobs. We do our best to deliver within 7 days – but that is not always possible. There are many variables at play behind the scenes.
We are not a store – you are not buying these items – we have no obligation to you. They were donated out of the generosity of your community. Our volunteers donate their time and talents, vehicles and gas to collect these items and distribute them. I can’t tell you how disappointing it is to have what come across as rude messages and “demands” sent to our team around what expectations our clients, who are receiving free food and supplies, have.
When we are short supplies, we (my husband and I) buy them out of pocket. This week ,that is $1600.00 of food and litter in Winnipeg).
Sometimes, our team is late in delivering. Sometimes, we have personal issues arise that slow us down, sometimes we have an influx of requests and a shortage of supply that we have to navigate. Sending demanding messages to me and our team, and/or being rude to me or our team members, does not make me want to help anymore.
Gratitude, compassion and curiosity (as in Hey AFB Team – I so appreciate your willingness to help and was wondering when someone could be out my way to deliver?) goes a long way. Our team is full of kind humans – and I expect the people receiving their kindness, to be kind back.
I’m at my wits end today. If our experience with you is not filled with kindness, gratitude and positivity, you will need to seek help with another service.
We are, to my knowledge, the only service that not only delivers for free, but provides a months worth of food (as often as we can, depending on availability). If you are unhappy with our services, you are more than welcome to utilize someone else.
If you want to help – please raise awareness in your community about the need for our services, and services like ours so we can garner more support, possible funding, more volunteers, and more donations from which to provide you with the help you need.
Thanks for your understanding and cooperation.
Nic