Mel Boutilier resigns from Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank

Mel Boutilieris stepping down as head ofthe Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank, a Halifax institution he foundedmore than 30 years ago, but says it's not the way he wanted to go.

"It's something I've been thinking of for awhile now," he told the CBC. "I've had a lot of good years there."

The 86-year-old volunteer took a temporary leave in the fall to have his sixth hip replacement. He said when he left the hospital the organization had introduced new management.

"Those people are still there and doing management...I felt I need to step aside and explore some other possibilities."

Boutiliersaid he had wanted to pick a successor.

"I would prefer to leave in the way I had planned. It's just not the way I wanted to do it," he said.

The charity began in the basement of a Seventh Day Adventist Church on Parker Street. It is now based on Maynard Street in Halifax's north end.

The food bank serves between 200 and 300 families a week, but italso includes a furniture bank, a skills training centre and two thrift stores.

Boutiliers community efforts have been lauded over the years. Hes a member of the Order of Canada, the Order of NovaScotia, and hes received numerous otherawards.

"We accomplished a lot. I have a lot to be thankful for," said Boutilier.

He's worked as a volunteer for 31 years.

"I've never received a pay cheque," he said.

Already thinking of his next step,Boutiliersays he wantsto help the young in north-end Halifax continue their education.

"There's a lot yet to do. I feel strong and healthy. I just want to carry on doing good things"