How to help food banks during COVID-19

If you’re looking for ways to give back, now’s the time! And that doesn’t have to mean financial support. Food banks need our donations now more than ever before.

Here’s a summary of how you can help…

Where can I find a food bank near me?

Food Banks Canada amalgamates 450 affiliated food banks on their search page. Most have COVID-19-related guidelines on their website.

For provincial food bank operations, visit:

• Alberta http://foodbanksalberta.ca/
• British Columbia https://foodbank.bc.ca/
• Ontario https://feedontario.ca/
• Quebec https://www.banquesalimentaires.org/en/

What do food banks need?

The following list of non-perishable foods are in high demand right now:

• Toilet paper and diapers
• Canned and frozen meat and fish
• Canned vegetables and fruit
• Healthy snacks for children (granola bars, applesauce)
• Canned and powdered milk
• Infant foods and baby formula
• Pasta (canned or dry) and pasta sauces
• Rice and crackers
• Whole grain cereals, oatmeal

Do food banks pick-up food at my home or do I deliver?

Each food bank has a different sets of guidelines regarding pick-up and delivery of non-perishable foods. Consult your local food bank’s website or contact them directly for more details.

How else can I help?

Check out Volunteer.ca’s list of centers seeking volunteers. These opportunities include response work or virtual volunteering opportunities (think translation services, social media work, etc).

What should you know before volunteering?

Check out Volunteer.ca’s list of centers seeking volunteers. These opportunities include response work or virtual volunteering opportunities (think translation services, social media work, etc).

What should you know before volunteering?

Your health and safety is the top priority. Review the following before volunteering:

• Canada’s COVID-19 page for the latest news and take the self-assessment if you are feeling unwell.
• Volunteer Canada’s Volunteer Checklist (Volunteering During COVID-19). This guideline provides an overview of what to do before, during, and after volunteering.
• Remember to always practice social distancing and proper hygiene measures wherever you go.

We’re in this together as a community and as a nation!