Supporting Local Food Banks during the Holidays

The Daily Bread Food Bank and North York Harvest Food Bank have released updated statistics in the "Who's Hungry 2023" annual report, which describes an unprecedented rise in food bank usage across Toronto. According to the report, a record-breaking 2.53 million people visited a food bank between April 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023 – a 51% increase from the last report. In North York alone, food bank visits have increased by 54%.

In response to growing demand, these are some of the organizations in Don Valley West that are working diligently to address food insecurity during the holiday season:

• North York Harvest Food Bank collects non-perishable donations dropped off at participating fire stations and grocery stores;

• Daily Bread Food Bank has drop-off locations across Toronto;

• Second Harvest accepts donations of surplus food to help divert waste from major businesses;

• INCA Relief Canada operates a location in Thorncliffe Park;

• The Toronto Neighbourhood Organization collects donations through the Food Collaborative;

• East York Meals on Wheels delivers discounted meals on top of other services, like the Halal program in Thorncliffe and Flemingdon Park; and

• The Canadian Community Services Organization (CCSO) in Thorncliffe Park hosts community events, including food initiatives, throughout the year and can be contacted at 647-292-5364.

For a comprehensive list of food banks and similar initiatives in Toronto, please visit 211 Central.