Food Bank of Waterloo Region aims for ‘one-million-meals’ with summer campaign

Issuing the reminder that “hunger doesn’t take a holiday”, the Food Bank of Waterloo Region has launched its summer “Full Bellies = Happy Hearts” campaign – with the goal of raising one-million meals by August 31st. With the region preparing for a return to near-normal with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions through our provincial framework, Wendi Campbell said many are looking forward to new adventures and reconnecting with loved ones – though much need still remains in the food assistance network.

Campbell is the CEO of the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, and said that goal of one-million-meals is intended to help the charitable organization in ensuring that “no one goes hungry”, reducing stress and worry for those accessing programs and services. With the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, Campbell said the service is “looking ahead” at the needs of its emergency food programs and vital supports, as well as the “shifting and changing” of public health recommendations.

“We’re looking ahead at (…) what is actually going to be the reality and the economic impact on individuals and families in our community who may have suffered some significant job losses, who are dealing with mental health issues, or who may be unable to get back to work as simply and easily as many people in our community who are so excited about Stage 3…”

“We want to make sure that our network has all the supports and services they need to deal with any potential increase that’s going to come in the weeks and months to come.”

While there is still a degree of caution in adhering to public health guidelines, Campbell said the community has several “great initiatives” going on right now to support the Food Bank’s efforts to reach one million meals – while those looking to conduct their own food drive in their neighbourhood can find information on the Food Bank’s website.

“We’re really looking forward to updating our volunteer protocols over the next few weeks and months, and really looking forward to hopefully being able to welcome more groups and more individuals back into our facility this fall.”

When it comes to priority items for donation, Campbell said financial donations allow the Food Bank of Waterloo Region to purchase perishables to fill gaps in inventory and are always appreciated. Furthermore, the “Full Bellies = Happy Hearts” campaign will have its financial donations matched thanks to a “generous matching gift” from Allan Bush of CIBC Wood Gundy.

“Additionally, we are accepting most needed food items – canned soup, individual snack items, canned and dried beans, canned meat and fish and hot cereals,” said Campbell. “Those can be donated at any local grocery store or as part of some of the community food drives that are currently happening.”

To learn more about the “Full Bellies = Happy Hearts” campaign or to donate, visit the Food Bank of Waterloo Region website.

In #WaterlooRegion, 1 in 20 households access hunger relief programs. This summer, we're asking you to support the Full Bellies. Happy Hearts. one million meal challenge so no one goes hungry during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.

To help #FeedWR, visit: https://t.co/0PdIvRh7j0 pic.twitter.com/A9gbRFLhFn

— The Food Bank of Waterloo Region (@FoodBankWatReg) July 15, 2021