A big part of the holiday season that many of us look forward to is spending time with our friends and families around the dinner table enjoying a festive feast. With this in mind, it’s important to note that hunger knows no boundaries, and many people in our community will rely on food banks this Christmas — and beyond.
A report from Food Banks Canada found that nearly 1.5 million Canadians relied on food banks in March 2022 alone – the highest March usage in history. The report also found that food bank usage is up 15% from 2021, and up 35% from March 2019. Grocery costs, lack of social assistance and high housing costs were listed as the top three reasons Canadians accessed food banks this year.
Since 1989 the Uxbridge Loaves and Fishes Food Bank have been gathering, organizing and distributing food to members of the Uxbridge community. Operated by volunteers and based out of the St. Andrew’s Chalmers Presbyterian Church, Loaves and Fishes put food on the tables of over 125 local families per month.
Current Needs
- Canned Pasta
- Pasta Sauce
- Canned fruit
- Cereal
- Canned tomatoes
- Large soups
- Canned meat (tuna/salmon/ham)
- Canned peas
- Instant Oatmeal
- Peanut butter
- Cake mix & icing
- Laundry Soap
Other Donation ideas
- Baked Beans
- Canned vegetables
- Crackers
- Granola bars
- Juice (1L)
- White rice
**Please note that Loaves & Fishes cannot give out any dented cans or opened packages. Remember to check expiry and “best before” dates before donating! Donating a reusable shopping bag along with your food donation is also encouraged.**
Food Donations can be dropped off locally at Zehrs, Pharmasave and Trail Capital IDA. Large donations or food drive donations can be dropped off by appointment, contact uxbridgeloavesandfishes@hotmail.com or call 905-852-0392 for more information.
The need for food bank donations doesn’t end once we ring in the New Year. Donating food consistently will allow Loaves & Fishes to continue battling hunger in our community. If you wish to make a monetary donation, you can donate online here, or send cash or cheque to:
Uxbridge Loaves and Fishes Food Bank
40B Toronto Street South, Uxbridge, ON
L9P 1G9
