If you’ve seen one food bank, you’ve seen … one food bank. Food Banks Canada collaborates with a network of over 5,500 organizations, each of which serves a community with distinct needs and operates in its own way. 

A shared set of values and best practices underpins this healthy diversity: every network member upholds Canada’s Ethical Food Banking Code. And now, each one is also working toward accreditation through Food Banks Canada’s Standards of Excellence. 

Some food banks have already completed this journey. This month, we’re celebrating Root Cellar Food & Wellness Hub in Medicine Hat, AB.

1. What inspired you to be an early accredited organization?

We’re a naturally competitive organization, but more than anything, we wanted to build community and donor confidence in the work we do. We’re already held to a high standard locally, so pursuing accreditation was a way to formalize that commitment and show we’re meeting best practices in every aspect of our work.

2. Describe your approach to reaching accreditation.

Our organization has gone through a major transformation in the past five years, from the Medicine Hat and District Food Bank to the Root Cellar Food and Wellness Hub. During that transition, we overhauled our systems and policies, which put us in a great position to align with the standards. With grant funding, we were able to hire someone to compile the necessary documentation and meet with each department. That same funding also helped us renovate our emergency food pantry by adding a privacy wall, creating a more respectful and dignified space for client conversations.

3. What was your first step in the process?

Our first step was to review each standard to identify areas that needed attention. From there, we developed a plan to tackle the work in small, manageable pieces.

4. Which standards were most manageable to meet? Why?

The standards around client care were the most straightforward for us. This is an area we’ve poured a lot of time and energy into, ensuring that everything we do is centred on dignity, respect, and support. The standards reflected values we already hold deeply, so that part felt natural.

5. What standards did you find daunting?

We wouldn’t say any of the standards were truly daunting, but some of the documentation requirements were certainly time-consuming. Writing out our processes in detail took effort, but it also allowed us to reflect, identify gaps, and make improvements.

a. How did you overcome this?

We took it one bite at a time. Breaking the work down into smaller tasks made it more manageable. The templates and guidance provided by Food Banks Alberta were incredibly helpful, and their team’s support was invaluable.

6. What surprised you through the process?

We were surprised to learn that we were considered a high-risk food bank. Through the process, we learned so much about best practices in food safety, especially around repackaging and allergens. For example, we hadn’t fully considered flour or vegetables from a garden as a high-risk activity now we’re taking extra precautions. Even though our food safety protocols already met standards, the process encouraged us to level up even further.

7. What advice would you offer to other organizations seeking accreditation?

Don’t get overwhelmed by the full scope, take it in sections and see it as an opportunity for growth. It’s all about mindset. We approached it as a tool to help us be the best version of ourselves as an organization.

8. What value does reaching accreditation provide to your organization?

Accreditation means a great deal to us. It was powerful to share the news with our community and to have them celebrate this milestone with us. It gives donors confidence that we’re operating at a high standard, and it gives our clients peace of mind that their food is handled safely and responsibly.

a. To the food banking system?

Accreditation strengthens the food banking system by ensuring consistency, safety, and quality across the network. When we’re all aligned with high standards, it builds trust with funders, clients, and the public, and allows us to work more effectively together to meet the needs of our communities.