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Feeding the Future: Together: A New Chapter for Cambridge Food Bank

On Friday, October 30, the Cambridge Food Bank will officially launch the public phase of our $12 million Feeding the Future capital campaign at Feeding the Future: Together at Tapestry Hall.

It will be an evening to bring our community together, celebrate how far we’ve come and look ahead to what’s next.

For more than 40 years, the Cambridge Food Bank has been here to help people access good food with dignity. But as the need for food support continues to grow, we know we need to grow too.

That’s why we’re building a new home at 384 Franklin Boulevard.

A new home for a growing community

Our new facility will give us the space and resources we need to better serve Cambridge and North Dumfries today and into the future.

The new building will bring many parts of our work together under one roof, including space for food distribution, community programs, food literacy and more. It will also include a greenhouse and gardens, creating new opportunities to connect people with fresh food and learn about growing and preparing food.

This isn’t simply a new building. It’s an investment in the future of our community.

Coming together to Feed the Future

Feeding the Future: Together will mark an important milestone in making that future possible.

Guests will enjoy food stations, a wine raffle and silent auction, along with a special keynote from Bob Egan, formerly of The Blue Jays. The evening will also give community members, businesses and supporters an opportunity to learn more about the vision behind our new home and how they can be part of it.

We’re especially excited to bring Cambridge businesses together for this event. Building a stronger food system takes all of us, and local businesses have an important role to play in helping create a future where everyone in our community can access the food they need.

Tickets are now available. Purchase your tickets today and join us for an evening of great food, connection and community as we look ahead to the future of food support in Cambridge and North Dumfries.

Buy your tickets here

Help us Feed the Future

The public launch of the campaign is just the beginning.

Our goal is to raise $12 million to help make the new Cambridge Food Bank a reality. Every contribution brings us one step closer to creating a space that can support our community for generations to come.

Whether you choose to donate, become a campaign partner, attend an event or simply share our vision with others, there is a place for you in Feeding the Future.

Together, we can build more than a new food bank. We can build a stronger, more food-secure future for Cambridge and North Dumfries.

Learn more about Feeding the Future and how you can get involved here

Feeding community since 1985.

 

Hunger Action Month digital postcard

Ending hunger in our community starts with you

September is Hunger Action Month, a national campaign that raises awareness about hunger and inspires action to support people facing food insecurity.

As municipal elections approach, we have an opportunity to ensure local leaders hear directly from their communities. While many policies affecting food insecurity are set by the Ontario government, mayors and councillors can help raise these issues and advocate for change.

Share your experience, concerns, or ideas about food insecurity. We’ll pass your message on to newly elected mayors across Waterloo region to help build awareness and encourage action on the root causes of food insecurity.

4 ways to make a difference this Hunger Action Month

September is Hunger Action Month, a nationwide campaign that raises awareness about hunger in our communities and inspires action to address food insecurity. Together with food banks across Canada, The Food Bank of Waterloo Region and Cambridge Food Bank are using this month to shine a light on the growing need for food assistance and advocate for solutions to poverty, the root cause of hunger. 

Last year, food hamper programs across Waterloo region recorded nearly 622,000 visits, the highest number ever reported and a 205 per cent increase since 2019. As more individuals and families struggle to make ends meet, there has never been a more important time to learn, speak up, and take action. Here are four ways you can make a difference this Hunger Action Month and help build a hunger-free future. 

Educate 

Food insecurity affects far more people in Waterloo region than many realize.  

  • 1 in 9 households is experiencing food insecurity  
  • Nearly 73,000 individuals are accessing food assistance programs  
  • 26,000+ children live in food-insecure households 

Emergency food programs through the Community Food Assistance Network provide critical short-term support, but they can’t solve the root cause of food insecurity: poverty.  

Hunger isn’t the result of individual choices. It’s driven by incomes that don’t keep pace with the cost of living and support systems that leave too many people struggling to afford basic necessities. Addressing food insecurity requires more than food. It requires policies that strengthen income supports, expand access to affordable housing, and help ensure people can earn a living wage. 

That’s why Feed Ontario and Food Banks Canada advocate for policy solutions that tackle poverty and reduce food insecurity. The Food Bank of Waterloo Region and Cambridge Food Bank supports these recommendations as part of a long-term path toward a hunger-free future. 

Advocate 

As municipal elections approach, we have an opportunity to ensure local leaders hear directly from the communities they serve. Fill out a postcard sharing your experiences, concerns, or ideas about food insecurity. We’ll share completed postcards with newly elected mayors across Waterloo region to raise awareness of the root causes of food insecurity and encourage municipal leaders to advocate for solutions at municipal and provincial levels. 

Questions to ask municipal candidates 

While many policies that influence food insecurity are set by provincial and federal governments, mayors and councillors play an important role in advocating for change and addressing local challenges. With municipal elections taking place across Ontario on October 26, consider asking candidates: 

  • Affordable housing remains out of reach for many residents. What specific actions will you take to increase access to affordable and supportive housing in our community? 
  • Homelessness continues to rise across our community. What steps will you take to help prevent homelessness and support people in find stable housing? 
  • Income security: Municipal governments cannot set wages, but they can advocate for change. How will you use your position to advocate for living wages and stronger income supports for residents struggling to make ends meet? 
  • Provincial advocacy: Will you publicly advocate for increases to Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program rates? If so, how? 

You can also sign Feed Ontario’s Hunger Action Month petition, calling for the provincial government to take real action to reduce hunger and poverty. 

Donate: If you can afford to give, non-perishable food and financial donations are greatly appreciated. Drop off a non-perishable food item at your local grocery store or donate online. Every dollar donated can help provide two meals for someone facing hunger. 

Volunteer: If you have time to spare, we’re always looking for volunteers to help onsite or at a community fundraising event in support of the Cambridge Food Bank. Visit our Volunteer page to learn more about our volunteer opportunities. 

Every action matters 

Creating a hunger-free future requires all of us. Whether you choose to learn more, speak up, donate, or volunteer, your actions help build a stronger community where everyone has access to the food they need. 

This Hunger Action Month, join us in raising awareness, inspiring action, and advocating for long-term solutions to food insecurity. Together, we can create lasting change. How will you make a difference? 

Behind the Numbers: A Mid-Year Look at Hunger in Cambridge & North Dumfries 

More neighbours are turning to the Cambridge Food Bank for support, and food insecurity is affecting more people in our community than ever before. 

During the first six months of 2026, the Cambridge Food Bank supported 3,572 households, representing 8,574 individuals across Cambridge and North Dumfries. Among those supported were 2,852 children and youth, accounting for 33% of all individuals served, as well as 1,455 (17%) older adults aged 55+ who relied on our services to access nutritious and reliable food support. 

During this same period, we distributed 12,054 food hampers to neighbours experiencing food insecurity. Of the households served, 574 (16%) were accessing our services for the first time, highlighting the growing number of individuals and families facing financial and food-related challenges. 

Behind every number is a person, a family, or a neighbour making difficult decisions about how to afford the essentials. 

Food insecurity is affecting working households too 

One of the most important things our data tells us is that food insecurity does not only affect those without employment. In the first half of 2026, 23% households accessing emergency food support reported employment as their primary source of income. Increasingly, having a job does not always mean having enough to cover rising costs. With the price of housing, groceries, and everyday necessities continuing to increase, many working individuals and families are finding themselves needing support. Food insecurity can happen to anyone — including people who are doing everything they can to make ends meet. 

Housing costs continue to put pressure on families 

For many households, the cost of housing is one of the biggest barriers to food security. 76% of households we supported live in private rental housing, showing how closely housing affordability and food insecurity are connected. When more of a household’s income goes toward rent, there is less available for groceries, transportation, healthcare, and other essential needs. Across Ontario and Canada, renters continue to experience some of the highest levels of food insecurity, and our community is seeing the impact locally. 

Responding to a growing need 

The Cambridge Food Bank is committed to meeting people where they are and providing support that helps neighbours access healthy, nutritious food. 

From January to June 2026, the Cambridge Food Bank distributed 819,843 pounds of food in our community pantry to support individuals and families facing food insecurity. 

Alongside our emergency food hamper program, we continue to expand access to fresh and affordable food through initiatives like our Mobile Food Market, which brings fresh, locally grown produce to the community through convenient market locations. 

Since launching, the Mobile Food Market has provided more than 100,000 baskets of affordable produce to neighbours across our community. 

Why community support matters 

The growing need for food support is a reminder that food insecurity is not an individual challenge — it is a community issue. 

Every hamper provided, every basket purchased through the Mobile Food Market, and every donation received helps create stability for a neighbour who may be facing difficult choices. 

Your support helps ensure that: 

  • families have access to nutritious food;  
  • children and youth can grow and thrive;  
  • Older adults feel supported in the community;  
  • neighbours do not have to face food insecurity alone.  

        Thank you to everyone who has donated, volunteered, and supported the Cambridge Food Bank this year. Together, we are continuing to build a stronger, more food-secure community. 

        Want to help support neighbours in need? Donate, volunteer, or learn more about how you can get involved with the Cambridge Food Bank today. 

         

        We’re celebrating our 2025 Community Champions! 

        Our retail partners continue to play a critical role in fighting food insecurity, reducing food waste, and supporting families across Cambridge and North Dumfries. In 2025, these dedicated stores donated thousands of pounds of food, providing fresh, nutritious items to our community while keeping good food out of landfill. Together, our 2025 Community Champions contributed over 500,000 lbs of food to the Cambridge Food Bank. Each partner’s dedication shows the power of collaboration in building a stronger, food-secure, and environmentally conscious community. 

        COBS Bread – Cambridge North 

        Big appreciation for COBS Bread Cambridge North! Located at 561 Hespeler Road, this incredible team is a long-standing partner and a proud 2025 Community Champion. 

        Three times per week, they generously donate unsold bread and baked goods, providing a steady stream of fresh, high-quality items for the Community Pantry. Their consistency and reliability help ensure families have access to a wonderful variety of baked goods year-round. 

        Led by owner Terrell Thurston, the store also plays an important role in reducing food waste by redirecting baked goods back into the community  supporting both families and environmental sustainability. 

        In 2025 alone, they donated an outstanding 29,912 pounds of food, building on their impressive 2024 total of 29,257 pounds. What an incredible impact — and what a fantastic community partner!  

        Costco – Kitchener 

        Costco Kitchener is recognized as a major retail partner and 2025 Community Champion. Through daily donations of meal kits, meat, produce, and essential groceries, Costco plays a pivotal role in supporting families across Cambridge and North Dumfries. Staff from multiple departments collaborate to prepare food for pickup, ensuring efficiency and consistency. 

        These donations consist of surplus items prioritized for food rescue rather than disposal, reflecting Costco’s strong commitment to both sustainability and community well-being. In 2025, Costco donated an extraordinary 166,470 pounds of food, nearly a 40 percent increase over their 2024 total of 120,623 pounds. 

        Food Basics – Hespeler 

        Food Basics Hespeler, located at 100 Jamieson Parkway, is a valued 2025 Community Champion. Through weekly donations of meat, baked goods, and non-perishable items, including customer contributions and backdoor donations, the team consistently ensures food reaches families in need. 

        Their staff provide smooth and friendly pickups, making the partnership seamless and effective. In 2025, Food Basics Hespeler donated 38,014 pounds of food, a 22 percent increase over their 2024 total of 31,277 pounds, demonstrating the growing impact of this partnership. 

        Foodland – Ayr 

        Foodland Ayr is a committed retail partner and 2025 Community Champion. The store contributes weekly donations of bread, produce, meat, and pantry items. These donations are consistently well-sorted and packaged, reducing warehouse sorting time and allowing food to reach families efficiently. 

        In 2024, Foodland Ayr donated 33,664 pounds of food. Their ongoing commitment to food rescue and sustainability continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local families. 

        Zehrs – Hespeler 

        Zehrs Hespeler is recognized as a retail partner and 2025 Community Champion for their significant contributions to food security and community well-being. Weekly donations include meat, produce, baked goods, and non-perishable items, including customer donations collected at the front of the store. 

        The team also actively supports community events such as Stuff a Van initiatives and community BBQs, reflecting leadership beyond their in-store donations. In 2025, Zehrs Hespeler donated 62,360 pounds of food, a 12 percent increase over their 2024 total of 55,988 pounds. 

        Ross & Lindsay’s No Frills 

        Ross & Lindsay’s No Frills, located on Franklin Boulevard and owned by Ross and Lindsay Ware, i2025 Community Champion. Despite a store ownership transition, their team maintained a consistent donation schedule, contributing produce, bread, meat, dairy, and pantry staples. 

        In 2025, the store donated 55,550 pounds of food, a remarkable 102 percent increase over their 2024 total of 25,043 pounds. Their dedication to food waste reduction and hunger relief has made a measurable difference for local families. 

        Zehrs – Cambridge Centre 

        Zehrs Cambridge Centre is a long-standing retail partner and 2025 Community Champion. In addition to regular donations of non-perishable items, meat, produce, and baked goods, the store supports community initiatives such as Stuff a Van events. Staff prepare carefully packed donation bags for customers to purchase at the storefront, helping rescue food that would otherwise be discarded. 

        In 2025, Zehrs Cambridge Centre donated 53,468 pounds of food, continuing their longstanding support for both food security and sustainability. 

        Sobeys – Westgate Cambridge 

        Sobeys Westgate Cambridge is a dedicated retail partner and 2025 Community Champion, led by Store Manager Doug Ermel and Assistant Store Manager Karen Baillie. The team provides regular donations of meat, produce, baked goods, and non-perishable items, focusing on fresh, nutritious food. 

        In 2025, Sobeys Westgate Cambridge donated 25,600 pounds of food, a 52 percent increase over their 2024 total of 22,665 pounds. Their consistent support plays a vital role in food security across Cambridge and North Dumfries. 

        Walmart 

        Walmart is recognized as a 2025 Community Champion for their dedication to hunger relief and sustainability. Weekly donations of a wide variety of food help divert good food from landfill while providing critical support to local families. 

        In 2025, Walmart donated 58,800 pounds of food, an impressive 314 percent increase over their 2024 total of 15,435 pounds. Their reliability and high-volume contributions make them an essential partner in our food rescue efforts. 

        Zehrs – South Cambridge 

        Zehrs South Cambridge is a valued retail partner and 2025 Community Champion. The team donates surplus food weekly, supporting families facing food insecurity while prioritizing food rescue and waste reduction. 

        In 2025, Zehrs South Cambridge donated 17,474 pounds of food. Their long-term partnership continues to play a vital role in building a stronger, food-secure community. 

        We extend our deepest gratitude to all of our 2025 Community Champions. Their dedication and consistent support demonstrate how retail partners can make a lasting impact on the community and the environment. 

         

        100,000 Baskets and Counting: The Growth of the Mobile Food Market

        The Cambridge Food Bank is marking a significant milestone as its Mobile Food Market (MFM) prepares to distribute its 100,000th fresh produce basket. What began in July 2021 as a community-focused initiative has grown into a vital program helping residents across Cambridge and North Dumfries access affordable, nutritious food.

        The Mobile Food Market was designed to reduce barriers to fresh food. Operating weekly in neighbourhoods across the region, the program offers produce baskets at a set price, with a pay-what-you-can option to ensure everyone can participate. This model creates a more inclusive and dignified experience, where community members support one another through shared access.

        Reaching 100,000 baskets is a notable achievement, but it comes at a time when food insecurity is increasing. Today, approximately 1 in 8 people in Cambridge and North Dumfries are experiencing food insecurity. Rising living costs continue to impact families, seniors, and working individuals, many of whom are turning to programs like the Mobile Food Market to help manage their grocery budgets.

        “The Mobile Food Market was created to remove barriers and make fresh food accessible in a way that feels welcoming and dignified,” says Dianne McLeod, CEO of The Cambridge Food Bank. “Reaching 100,000 baskets is a significant milestone, but it also reflects the growing need in our community.”

        The program’s impact is rooted in its community-driven approach. Those who are able to pay full price for their baskets help subsidize access for others, creating a system that is both practical and stigma-free. Each purchase contributes to a broader effort to ensure fresh food remains accessible to all.

        To mark this milestone, the Cambridge Food Bank is inviting community members to visit any Mobile Food Market location and take part in the celebration. A limited commemorative basket will be available, featuring a wedge of locally produced cheese from Mountainoak Cheese. This addition highlights not only the milestone itself, but also the program’s ongoing commitment to supporting local producers.

        Whenever possible, the Mobile Food Market sources produce from local farmers. This approach strengthens the regional food system, reduces environmental impact, and supports long-term sustainability.

        The success of the program is made possible through the collective efforts of volunteers, donors, and community partners. Support from organizations such as Equitable Foundation, which contributed $125,000 toward food purchases over the past year, has played a key role in ensuring the program can continue to meet growing demand.

        Beyond food access, the Cambridge Food Bank offers a range of programs that support long-term wellbeing. Nutrition education, community gardens, and food skills initiatives are designed to build confidence, reduce isolation, and improve overall health outcomes for individuals and families.

        As the Mobile Food Market continues to grow, so does the need for community support. Expanding access to fresh, healthy food remains a priority, and milestones like this serve as both a reflection of progress and a reminder of the work still ahead.

        To learn more about the Mobile Food Market, visit here.