B.C. mining community gives $100,000 to combat hunger

VANCOUVER — The Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) and Integra Resources recently announced that the B.C. mining and exploration community is donating $100,000 to Food Banks BC.

The groups stated the funds will go towards targeted relief to residents in rural, remote and Indigenous communities who are struggling to feed their families. The groups noted the issue of hunger has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since early June more than 50 donations from corporations and individuals were collected as part of the #MiningFeedsBC Food Bank challenge. The challenge called on the industry to share their favourite mining meal memory on social media and make a donation to Food Banks BC. The challenge saw a massive donation of $50,000 from Wheaton Precious Metals as well as a personal donation from the company’s CEO Randy Smallwood.

“It is especially important during these challenging times that businesses come together to help those most in need,” said Kendra Johnston, AME president and CEO, in a statement. “As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, more families and individuals are facing financial hardship resulting in an even greater demand for basic needs such as food security. We are proud to do our part by accepting the #MiningFeedsBC Food Bank challenge and grateful for the overwhelming support for this cause by the mining and exploration industry. We also greatly commend the volunteers and employees at Food Banks BC for their dedication to supporting our communities.”

George Salamis, president and CEO of Integra Resources, noted the mining community has a important role to play during the COVID-19 crisis.

“During this time of immense challenge, we have an even more profound role to play to continue supporting our local communities and our country – both near our operations in Idaho and where we live, right here in B.C.,” said Salamis. “Mining and exploration has always been a resilient business. Seeing our industry be welcomed neighbours, offering a helping hand and working to build capacity and reduce burdens, is really powerful and inspiring.”