By Rosalind Russell – Espanola’s Helping Hand Food Bank had asked Espanola council to consider taking over the monthly rent for their downtown location.
The food bank had asked that the town take over the $1,500 per month rent and add it to the annual municipal budget.
The rising number of users and the cost of food led to the food bank making the ask.
However, last night the council turned down the request following an in-depth study of the situation.
Town administration and the council thought it would set a precedent although they are sympathetic to the position Helping Hands is in.
Council did agree to make a one-time $1,500 donation to the organization.