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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 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. 

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. 

From January to June 2026, the Cambridge Food Bank distributed 717,386 pounds of food to support individuals and families facing food insecurity. 

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.

        Celebrating Nutrition Month: Nourishing Our Community Together 

        March marks Nutrition Month, a time to reflect on the importance of healthy, accessible food for all. At Cambridge Food Bank, we know that food is more than just sustenance; it’s the foundation of wellbeing, growth, and community connection. 

        Every day, our team works to ensure that families, seniors, and individuals in need have access to nutritious options. From fresh produce and whole grains to dairy and protein-rich foods, we prioritize providing balanced items that support a healthy lifestyle. 

        Did you know? Many households accessing our services face barriers that make it difficult to maintain proper nutrition, such as financial challenges, limited access to grocery stores, or dietary restrictions. Our programs aim to bridge that gap, ensuring that no one in our community has to compromise on health because of food insecurity. 

        This Nutrition Month, we also want to recognize the generosity of our donors and volunteers. Every donation, every hour spent packing hampers, and every contribution to our programs helps families enjoy meals that are both nourishing and satisfying. 

        As we celebrate Nutrition Month, we invite the community to join us in supporting access to healthy food. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, your involvement makes a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. Together, we can ensure that everyone in Cambridge has the nutrition they need to thrive.

        Learn More

        Support Families This Spring: Join the Spring Into Action Food & Fund Drive

        As the weather warms and the season changes, the need for food support in our community remains high. Each year, the Cambridge Food Bank sees increased demand for our programs during the spring months, even as donations often decline. To address this, we’re excited to launch our annual Spring Into Action Food & Fund Drive, running from March 20 to May 31.

        This community-wide campaign is an opportunity for residents, businesses, and local partners to come together and ensure that families facing food insecurity have access to the nutritious food they need. Whether it’s donating non-perishable items, contributing funds, or hosting a drive, every action helps keep our shelves stocked and supports essential programs that make a real difference in people’s lives.

        This year, your impact goes further than ever. Cedar Signs has generously committed to match financial donations made during the Spring Into Action campaign, up to $10,000. That means every dollar you give can be doubled, helping more families access reliable food support throughout the spring and into the summer months.

        Getting involved is simple:

        • Donate food: Drop off non-perishable items at the Cambridge Food Bank.
        • Give funds: Every financial donation helps fill shelves and supports programs.
        • Host a drive: Organize a food or fundraising drive with friends, family, or your workplace.

        Spring is a season of growth, renewal, and coming together as a community. By participating in Spring Into Action, you can help ensure that everyone in our community has enough to eat and the support they need to thrive.

        Join us today and make a difference this spring.

        Donate now

        Lettuce wraps with sweet potato, zucchini, carrots and chickpeas

        This week’s mobile food market features lettuce, sweet potatoes, zucchini, and Carrots. Here’s a delicious recipe to try:

        Ingredients:
        1-2 sweet potatoes, cleaned and cubed
        1-2 zucchini, cleaned and cubed
        1-2 carrots, cleaned and sliced thinly
        1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
        2 tbsp Olive oil
        1 tsp salt
        1 tsp pepper
        1/2 tsp paprika
        2 cloves garlic, chopped or pressed
        Lemon juice
        lettuce

        1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees
        2. Spread sweet potatoes in a single layer on baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast 35-40 minutes, then add zucchini and carrots and roast an additional 10-15 minutes
        3. In a frying pan over medium heat, saute chickpeas, garlic and paprika and 1 tablespoon of olive oil for 3-5 minutes
        4. Add roasted sweet potatoes, zucchini, carrots and lemon juice, stirring together and saute another 3-5 mins

        Place spoonfuls of mixture onto lettuce leaf, wrap and enjoy!

        Click here to shop this week’s mobile food basket