Big Sky Times

The Missoula Food Bank began construction on animal structures called “Canimals” last week for its yearly “Candemonium” design and build contest.

According to a report by NBC Montana on April 7, the teams and organizations get canned food from local grocery stores. The event has been running since 2014. The food bank will likely receive about 20,000 pounds of canned food to stock shelves by the end of the competition.

“I think it's a really good way to get your mind around how massive food insecurity is in our community. And so, when you see a structure made out of thousands of cans and know that it comes back to the food bank and it's gone in a matter of weeks, it really speaks to the level that we need to address this,” Claire Bonino-Britsch with the Missoula Food Bank said to NBC Montana.

According to the NBC Montana report, teams consisting of architects, businesses and organizations from the local community are tasked to create structures with canned food. The food that is used goes right back to the Missoula Food Bank to be donated to stock the shelves to help those in need of food assistance in the community.

The “Canimals” will be on display at the Southgate Mall until April 14. 

“Canimals stampede into Southgate Mall for this year’s Candemonium. Check out these larger-than-life can creations from all over the animal kingdom made entirely from food! Use your voice to vote for your favorites and help foster food security in Missoula,” a flyer for the event stated.

According to the Missoula Food Bank website, “You are welcome here. Our Store does not have eligibility criteria, so no one needs to worry that they will be turned away. When you arrive at the Store, we will ask you to complete an intake form. All information is self-report, and we do not ask you to bring any kind of documentation. Your personal information will remain confidential, and intake forms are available in several languages.”

People can vote for their favorite “canimal” on the Missoula Food Bank and Community Center Website. They can also make a monetary donation to the food bank in the amounts of $5, $10, $20 or $50. People can also select their own amount to donate.

To do so, visit https://missoulafoodbankandcommunitycenter.salsalabs.org.