We asked, you responded… When COVID-19 first hit our communities, food banks were faced with a range of new challenges. With the support of people and organizations like you, Feed Ontario took action through our new pre-packed Emergency Food Box Program. Together, we were able to send hundreds of truckloads of food out to communities across Ontario.
But it’s not over yet. Our past experience in helping communities manage and overcome crises tells us that the impact of this pandemic will continue to be felt for years to come. But our emergency response has shown us the resiliency of our food banks and province. And just as food banks will continue to be there to support their communities, we’ll be there to continue to support them through Operation Community Regeneration:
- FeedON – Replenish: We will grow our fresh food donation programs, launch our new Full Shelves Program to provide more food staples and PPEs, develop our Northern Food Strategy in partnership with communities, and invest in new food production lines exclusively for Ontario’s food bank network.
- Feed Possibility – Renew: We will invest in capacity-building, resources, and knowledge-sharing to help food banks adapt to our new normal and keep clients, volunteers, staff, and their communities safe.
- Feed Change – Strengthen Resilience: We will strengthen our collective resilience through evidence-based solutions that provide lasting support to our province’s most vulnerable and ensure that communities are prepared for the future.
Will you help finish what we started? Together, we’ve already provided millions of meals, but the road to recovery has only just begun. Operation Community Regeneration will help ensure Ontario’s food banks have the resources they need to continue to help our province recover and thrive.
Will you join us?
Donate Food
We know there are many organizations and individuals who want to help their neighbours at this time. One practical way you can support your community during these tough times is by donating food or personal supplies to food banks or to Feed Ontario.
Most-Needed Items
- Cereal & oatmeal
- Canned vegetables & fruit
- Canned fish & meat
- Peanut butter & jam
- Soups & stews
- Pasta & pasta sauce
- Easy-to-prepare meals (eg. Sidekicks, Kraft Dinner)
- Children’s snacks (granola bars, applesauce)
- Rice
- Crackers
For farmers, food producers, wholesalers, and venues
- For smaller donations (less than 5 pallets of food or supplies): Contact your local Feed Ontario member food bank to arrange a donation.
- For large-scale donations (more than 5 pallets of food or supplies): Contact Adelaide Wimpenny at adelaide@feedontario.ca or 416-656-4100 x2934
For retailers, restaurants, and caterers
Contact your local Feed Ontario member food bank to find out how you can support their operations.
For individuals
Contact your local Feed Ontario member food bank to find out what items are needed and how you can best support them during this time.
For more information:
Adelaide Wimpenny
Coordinator, Member Relations and Programs
adelaide@feedontario.ca | 416-656-4100 x2934
Donate Funds
We’re calling on everyone to join us in our response to COVID-19 and help get food safely into the hands of those who need it most.
Every $1 donated can provide 3 meals to someone facing hunger.
Donate funds or start a fundraiser now.
For Organizations
- For donations less than $2,500: Donate securely online to Feed Ontario.
- For donations more than $2,500: Contact Rachel Dixon at rachel@feedontario.ca or 416-656-4100 x2937
- Start a Team Fundraiser: Invite your colleagues to join you in fundraising for Feed Ontario by creating a team fundraiser through Canada Helps Link opens a new window!
- Learn what other organizations are doing: See some of the incredible organizations that have already partnered with us during this emergency and how they’re helping
For Individuals
- One-time Donation: Donate securely online to Feed Ontario.
- Start a Fundraiser: You can create your own fundraiser Link opens a new window for Feed Ontario through Canada Helps and invite your friends to donate!
For more information:
Rachel Dixon
Manager, Corporate & Foundation Partnerships
rachel@feedontario.ca | 416-656-4100 x2937
Need Help?
Find a Food Bank
To find a Feed Ontario member food bank near you, visit our Find a Food Bank tool. Note: Many of our food banks have adjusted their practices in observance of social distancing best practices, in accordance with the advice of their local public health units, so hours may have changed from what is listed.
Financial Supports
In recognition of the financial burden that social distancing has placed upon individuals and businesses, the Canadian and Ontario governments are offering a number of supports to assist those facing challenges. We have compiled a list of the measures of most relevance to food bank clients and will be updating this document as more information becomes available.
Statements
Food Bank Requests to the Ontario Government, March 18, 2020