Let’s hear it for the hard-working volunteers.

National Volunteer Week runs from April 19 to 25 and the community applauds the efforts of Rita Ng, who took it upon herself and the challenges of COVID-19 to raise funds and food for the Daily Bread Food Bank, an agency near to her heart.

“My mom relied on food banks to feed my brother and me,” recalls Rita. “I am grateful to be in a position where I can give back to vulnerable families in my community.”

In short time, she set up an online fundraiser through the Daily Bread’s website and reached out to her family and friends for donations.

Rita worked hard and managed to raise $5,000 and 500-pounds of food during her first week of helping the food bank.

“It is incredible what you can achieve when you unite together to accomplish a goal,”’ she says. “I also learned that it is okay to be vulnerable.”

Rita says she once relied on food banks herself and was fortunate now to have a home and food on the table. She thought about those who would be hit hardest by COVID-19 and knew she had to do something.

National Volunteer Week recognizes the work of Rita and thousands of volunteers from coast to coast who contribute long hours to help others in these trying times.

“Volunteers from all over the city have stepped up to support our work and ensure that those in need can continue to access food during this critical time,” the Daily Bread says in a release.

Daily Bread officials have made changes to their food-sorting and packing processes due to social distancing guidelines and have reduced the number of volunteers who can be in the warehouse.

“One thing has remained the same: the love and care our volunteers bring every single time, and for that, we are so grateful,” they wrote.

Visit dailybread.ca to donate money or food.