Gearing Up for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is the quintessential time to think about ways to spread good cheer and help put food on the tables of those in need. Supporting food banking is the perfect way to participate in the spirit of the season. Here are some ways you can incorporate helping Canadians in need into your annual holiday traditions.
 
Raise Food

At your next holiday gathering with friends, family, or coworkers, consider asking them to bring a donation for your local food bank. It will add a charitable element to the festivities which will warm your guests’ hearts.

See what items are most needed and find the address of your local food bank to drop off the donation on our Support Your Local Food Bank page. To make things easy, Loblaw Companies stores are hosting their biannual food drive between December 8th to the December 24th. Visit your local Loblaw banner store to make a donation of food or funds to support your local community.
 
Raise Money

Consider organizing a holiday-themed fundraiser. People love enjoying holiday themed goodies or purchasing unique one-of-a-kind handmade gifts, so you can organize a bake sale or craft sale to get others involved during the season of giving.
 
Consider hosting a holiday dinner for your friends and family or lunch with your coworkers and asking them to make a donation to support their local food bank
 
Planning a visit to Crate and Barrel this November? You can show your support and make a donation at any of the six Crate and Barrel locations in Canada. Learn more by asking a Crate and Barrel associate on your visit in the store!

Family Outing

One of the ways to raise awareness, food and funds for food banking is the annual CP Holiday Train.
The 19th Annual CP Holiday Train will be travelling through Canada and the U.S. Gather your family and friends and plan to bring a healthy food donation or your loose change to the event. Check out the Holiday Train schedule and take the opportunity to enjoy the festive atmosphere and entertainment.

You’ll need to refuel while you’re out and about.  World Sandwich Day is on November 3rd! SUBWAY®Restaurants will help raise money for food banks right in time for the Holidays. Visit your local Subway Restaurant and with a purchase any sandwich and 21oz drink, you will receive a second sandwich of equal or lesser price FREE, plus SUBWAY® will DONATE a meal to Food Banks Canada.  It’s a win, win, win.
 
Volunteer

We know that this is a busy time of year, so a great way to extend your holiday season is to organize a group sort after the hustle and bustle has died down.  Local food banks will have their hands full sorting through all the donations collected during holiday food drives.  A group sort is a great way to spend time with your friends and family and at the same time give back to your community. To find out more about volunteer opportunities in your area, contact your local food bank.
 
A Yummy Way to Support
 
Egg Farmers of Canada is proud to be celebrating -more than two decades of supporting food banking across the country by contributing millions of eggs each year. This December, you can share your favourite recipes using #RecipesThatGive to spread the holiday spirit! Stayed tuned to learn more! 

  
Gifts that Give Back

Pampered Chef Canada through their Round-Up from the Heart® program, offers three different ways to support food banks. From each Pancake Blender Bottle purchased, Pampered Chef Canada will donate $1 to Food Banks Canada. You can also round up your order to the nearest dollar or more and 100% of proceeds will benefit Food Banks Canada affiliated food bank. Lastly, you can also host a Round-Up from the Heart fundraiser where up to 15% of total sales will be contributed to Food Banks Canada or local food banks. Visit Pampered Chef Canada’s website to learn more.