Your guide to food banks in York Region

By: Ryan Boyd, Up Hub summmer student

What is a food bank and why are they needed?

Food banks are nonprofit organizations that collect and redistribute food to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.

Food insecurity is defined as being without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Food insecurity happens when an individual or household doesn’t have enough money to purchase adequate food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences. People in these households may have to eat small portions, skip meals, or sometimes not eat for extended periods of time.

An estimated seven per cent of York Region households (approximatley 24,000) experienced food insecurity between 2009 and 2014.

Who do food banks serve?

One of the biggest misconceptions about food banks is that they only serve homeless people or people who are unemployed. Food banks understand that there are various situations and complex scenarios in which all kinds of people experience food insecurity.

It’s normal to feel a little anxious when visiting a food bank for the first time, and you may also have a lot of questions.

The general rule of thumb is if you show up to a food bank and ask for assistance, you will be helped. Food banks are designed to assist people with financial limitations, and their services are provided completely free of charge. You’re not being a burden by visiting a food bank. They’re there for a reason, and if you really need the assistance, you won’t be turned away.

There tend to be a few administrative steps involved, but each location is unique. Typically, you’ll have to fill out an intake form and provide a piece of ID. You may also be asked questions about your personal situation, like how many family members you’re caring for, or your financial status. This information is kept confidential.

What you get at food banks in York Region, and how often you can visit them, varies from depending on the organization. The Georgina Community Food Pantry, for example, provides individuals and families with a four-day supply of food each month, while the Markham Food Bank provides seven to 10 days worth of food. To find a food bank in your neighbourhood, visit the York Region Food Network for more information on various locations in York Region.

Donating to food banks

Each oranization has different rules when it comes to food bank donations. Make sure to call ahead or check out the website of the location you want to donate to. Healthy food with high nutritional value is preferred.

According to Feed Ontario, the following items rank high on the list of what food banks need the most:

• Grains: oatmeal, high-fibre cereal, brown rice, whole grain pasta

• Protein: canned salmon or tuna, peanut butter, canned or dried beans/lentils

• Fruits and vegetables: potatoes, onions, carrots, tomatoes

• Foods for special diets: gluten-free, lactose-free, kosher, heart-healthy and sugar-free items

Other ways to support food banks

There are other ways you can support food banks other than food donations. Donating money to food banks is one of the best ways to help out. It’s even preferred sometimes because food banks are then able to go out and select food items that the people they serve want or need.

If you’re willing to invest a bit of your time, look into volunteering at your local food bank. It’s a great way to support friends and neighbours in your community.

Food banks are an essential service and if you’re experiencing food insecurity, food banks are there to help.