Directly across from Woodbine Racetrack sits a very unassuming building, home to Toronto Perth SDA Food Bank, a Daily Bread Food Bank member agency. From the outside, one would never guess the bustling activity inside as volunteers lovingly prepare food boxes for community members soon to arrive.
In the food bank, Carrol, a lead volunteer, moves at lightning speed, packing made-to-order food boxes for some of the regular food bank clients. “We get to know everyone and what they like and don’t like, and we try our best to build a customized box for each of them,” says Carrol.
If clients would rather not receive a food box, they also have the option of choosing the foods they prefer by perusing tables carefully laid out with fresh produce, dairy, and shelf-stable items like lentils and rice.
It’s this level of love and care that makes Toronto Perth SDA Food Bank a very special place. Despite a drastic climb in client visits in recent years, the volunteers still make every effort to create a space where people feel welcome and can shop in a dignified manner.
For those who are not able to access the food bank in person, a small army of volunteers delivers food boxes directly to them. Thanks to these volunteers, Toronto Perth SDA Food Bank can ensure members of the community, including seniors and those with mobility issues, can still receive the food they need.
Last year, Daily Bread member food banks served over 3.75 million client visits – a more than 25% increase compared to the year prior, and 4.5 more times than pre-pandemic. Food insecurity is soaring, but we are thankful for partners like Toronto Perth SDA Food Bank for helping to end hunger in our city.
Click here to learn about the rising food insecurity crisis in Toronto and how Daily Bread advocates for solution to end poverty.
