When the holidays return each year, they remind us of the joys that can be found in giving. Whether gifts are big or small, they show others that we care. Supporting food banks is a meaningful way to give back to the community, especially since the need for their services is at an all-time high. 

In fact, according to Food Banks Canada’s HungerCount 2024 report, there will be over two million visits to food banks this month. With so many of our neighbours struggling to make ends meet, this is a great time to start or continue gifting traditions that embody the best of what the season can be. 

There are many ways to give nourishment and holiday cheer to those who need it the most. Here are a few ideas: 

The gift of food

If you have extra food to share, donate it to a food bank near you. To go the extra mile, give the food bankers a call first, to see what types of items they need the most. Commonly, these include whole-grain foods, low-sugar canned fruit, protein foods, nut butters and milk alternatives. 

The gift of time

The holidays are a busy time for food banks, and extra volunteer hands are usually appreciated. Use our handy “Find a Food Bank” tool to find a convenient place to contribute your time. If you like the experience, consider becoming a regular volunteer and helping your community all year round! 

The gift of funds

Times are tough, but if you’re fortunate enough to have some income to share, monetary donations to Food Banks Canada are a surefire way to make your generosity count. If planning fun events is among your talents, consider turning a holiday gathering into a festive fundraiser. Even small donations from family and friends can add up quickly. 

Shop and give back 

Here are some items and experiences you can use to treat your loved ones (or yourself) while supporting Food Banks Canada through its partnerships. 

Club House (McCormick): From December 1 to December 31, buying your favourite Club House product from any in-store retailer will result in Club House donating one meal to Food Banks Canada. Up to 400,000 meals could reach people this way, so get cooking!  

Coca-Cola: Need some refreshments for your gatherings this month? From November 28 to January 1, Coca-Cola will donate $0.50 to Food Banks Canada each time someone buys any two participating Coca-Cola products in Sobeys stores, for a total of up to $50,000. 

Bel Canada (The Laughing Cow): If your get-togethers also call for finger foods, help Bel offer 100,000 meals to food banks by enjoying a limited-edition pack of The Laughing Cow cheese.  

Crate & Barrel: From November 14 to December 24, Crate & Barrel and its sister brands will donate proceeds from selected products to Food Banks Canada. Namely, Food Banks Canada will benefit from sales of the Crate & Barrel Windam Mug or Bowl set (which gives $10 back), the CB2 cast ivory mug ($5 back) and the Crate & Kids chef coat and hat ($5 back). If you want to contribute even more, Crate & Barrel is also collecting cash donations at check-out, whether you’re buying in-store or online. 

Loblaw Companies Limited: From November 28th to December 24th, grocery shoppers can take part in the latest Loblaw Feed More Families™ holiday food drive by either making a monetary donation at the checkout or by leaving non-perishable food in the bin at the front of the store. Every store where President’s Choice products are sold is participating. One hundred per cent of donations will be directed to locally matched food banks, and Loblaw Companies Limited will match the first $100,000 of monetary donations made!  

La Maison Simons: As of November 1, Simons will donate $5 to Food Banks Canada for every piece of selected Simons holiday sleepwear they sell. The collection includes cozy cotton pajamas and sweatshirts for adults and children alike.  

Rexall Care Network: From November 24 to December 28, Rexall Care Network is raising critical funds for Food Banks Canada. As part of their Holiday Bubble Campaign, customers can make a donation at Rexall Pharmacies checkouts in support of Food Banks Canada. Round up your purchase and walk away with that giving feeling. 

Swiss Chalet: From November 1 until December 29, Swiss Chalet will donate one can of its comforting soup for every purchase of its chicken and broccoli cheddar soup in restaurants, for a total of up to 52,000 soup cans.  

VinFast Auto Canada: Take a spin in a VinFast electric vehicle and provide 100 meals to families in need! Between November 18, 2024, and January 15, 2025, simply test driving one of these eco-conscious, all-wheel-drive cars at any Canadian VinFast location will trigger a donation, whether or not you decide to make a purchase. Customers are encouraged to bring a friend along, because if they go for a test drive too then that will generate another 100 meals. 

Together, we’re providing nourishment and compassion for millions. Thank you for everything you give back during the festive season and all year round. Warm holiday wishes from the Food Banks Canada team!