The Whitehorse Food Bank is planning to purchase its own building after a one-time funding announcement by the territorial government.
The Department of Health and Social Services will be giving the organization $750,000.
Stephen Dunbar-Edge, executive director of the Food Bank Society of Whitehorse, said money will cover most of the $1-million price tag to buy the building on Alexander Street, the land it’s on and the plot of land next door.
The remaining money owed will be covered with a mortgage carried by the building’s previous owner, L’Association franco-yukonnaise.
Dunbar-Edge said the mortgage payment will be less than the rent the organization currently pays.
He also hopes to rent out space to other non-profit organizations to help cover the bills.
Dunbar-Edge said owning the building means he can be more confident about the long-term sustainability of the organization.
Health Minister Doug Graham said the food bank’s long-term viability was part of the reason for the money.
The current building was built in the 1950s and is a former legion. Plans to purchase it have been in the works for more than a year.
As for what will be done with the empty lot next door, Dunbar-Edge said there are a lot of options to be discussed in the new year.
The plan still has to be approved by the organization’s board of directors.