The Colchester Food Network in Truro, Nova Scotia is excited to have rolled out Food Bank Helper with the help of Dan! The system is relatively easy to use and our clientele love how it works. In fact a couple of gentleman had a fun time pretending the using the scanner gun was like playing a video game. I mention this because these men HAD FUN AT A FOOD BANK! It has changed the environment. The use of this in our already established Client Choice Market has provided a much more dignified way to access emergency food. This allows clients to come often and select smaller amounts of food each time. We expect that there will be less waste in food, with clients only taking what they can use at the time of their visit and knowing they can come back within days if they need something else. This system allows more people to be served with less volunteers required. It allows management of our volunteer schedules. It allows clients to be independent. Our organization looks forward to implementing the online shopping component of the software for our deliveries. Dan has been supportive and available during the roll out phase, allowing us to call or email for support. He is easy to understand and follow as he walks us through the support needed. This software has allowed us to take the lead in Nova Scotia to a new innovative way of food banking. I would highly recommend Food Bank Helper to other food banks as they have complete control over the way it is used, therefore allowing organizations to tailor its usage to already existing food banks.

I’m a volunteer at the Clarington East Foodbank for over 3 years. I was there before the new system and I can tell you this has made it such a great difference as a volunteer with having everything display on tablets from items being scanned and all points are added accordingly there is no oversights. We do not have to question if someone has gotten a certain item as it’s all there for the month. Talk about a great experience for our shoppers as well it is dignified and they can feel like a normal shopping experience. Even the children speak of it as going grocery shopping . This system should be in every foodbank as it also provides so much data that otherwise had to be done manually . I also love the booking of volunteer shifts it’s smooth and easy and you get reminders as to when your shift is coming up and you choose the position you want to volunteer as and you know exactly what you’ll be doing when you get there . This system is a no brainer really if anyone is thinking about it just do it you will not regret it .

FoodBank Helper from Thertell Tech has been a game-changer for our food bank, especially in how it supports our shopping model and equity-focused service delivery. The reporting tools show how many Neighbours use all their points and give us clear insights into whether our Neighbours are truly getting the food they need to support their households. This data is critical for building a more equitable system. With Foodbank Helper, we can set thoughtful limits that ensure fairness, so every household has access to essential items like cooking oil. It helps us guarantee that no one is left behind and that everyone has the same opportunity to meet their nutritional needs. The analytics and reporting features have also helped build trust with our Neighbours and with our donors. Being able to clearly show which items are in highest demand helps us tailor donation requests so we’re receiving exactly what our community needs most. It’s not just about tracking food; it’s about making sure our entire model is working better for for everyone involved.