Ottawa Food Bank

The Ottawa Food Bank is the main emergency food provider in the National Capital Region, which works in partnership with a network of over 100 community food programs to provide food and supplies for tens of thousands of people each month – 36 per cent of whom are children. With a focus on fresh, and thanks to the community’s support, on average 12 to 14 tons of food is distributed from the 1317 Michael St. warehouse every weekday.

TOP FUNDING SOURCES

• Individual donations: 55%
• Other charities: 6.9%
• Corporate donations: 1.8%
• Government funding: 1.7%
• Other: 33.7%

Funding priorities

Food purchasing

The Ottawa Food Bank’s food purchase budget will increase to almost $6 million in 2022–2023, an increase of more than 200 per cent since 2020 to keep up with the highest level of food bank use the organization has seen in its 38-year history.

Moving to a Healthier Future

This major fundraising campaign in support of the Ottawa Food Bank’s relocation to a larger, retrofitted warehouse in the new year. More space for fresh, healthy foods and improved health outcomes for individuals and families in Ottawa who access food banks are two key outcomes of this campaign.

How you can help

DONATE

Each month, 52,000 individuals within our community require food support. Over one-third are children. Donations of food, funds, and volunteer service time are crucial in achieving our mission to increase access to healthy food, create a healthier city by empowering people, and advocating for systemic changes that reduce food insecurity.

The network of over 100 member agencies are key supports for individuals when income is at-risk, and rising costs make it difficult to access healthy food. Your donations are used to meet the increased need at food banks across Ottawa and help manage the rising costs of food and distribution.

VOLUNTEER

The kind-hearted people who volunteer with the Ottawa Food Bank help us, in the most hands-

on way possible. Volunteer opportunities include positions supporting Ottawa Food Bank special events, food donation sorting, community harvest farm volunteers, and delivery assistants.

EVENTS + FUNDRAISING

Holiday Food Drive

Presented by Mosaic, each November, we call on workplaces to collect funds and food for families in need.

Food Sort Challenge

The Food Sort Challenge is a fast-paced corporate and community challenge, where teams of ten compete head-to-head to see who can sort food the fastest while raising funds that provide support to our neighbours in need.

Moving To A Healthier Future

A one-time capital campaign to support the Ottawa Food Bank’s relocation to a new warehouse space that provides more room for healthy, fresh food.

Adopt a Crop

Presented by Mondeau Bathroom & Kitchen, our Adopt a Crop program invites local businesses to the Ottawa Food Bank’s 8-acre farm to get involved in the community harvest!