Kawartha Lakes Food Source wins Excellence in Food Banking award

On June 27 2023, Kawartha Lakes Food Source executive director Heather Kirby received the Excellence in Food Banking award in Edmonton, Alberta as part of the Food Banks Canada national conference.

The Excellence in Food Banking Award 2023 honours the most outstanding food bank in the Food Banks Canada network for going above and beyond the core mission of providing food to those needing help. Award recipients play an instrumental role in improving the communities they serve through creative, efficient and successful programs and services and exemplify the highest standards of operation.

Fund development, technology, volunteer development, capacity building, community leadership and mentorship are aspects of operations that were used to adjudicate the applications.

“It is an honour to be recognized by our national peers for the work we do to reduce food insecurity,” says Kirby. “We work diligently to build and sustain confidence in our agency, have expanded to deliver our own programs that directly serve the community, and provide employment readiness opportunities to build essential skills in those entering the workforce.”

While in Edmonton at the national conference, Kirby attended sessions that focused on systems changes and innovations in the food security system, government relations, and logistics and food procurement. As part of the conference Kirby had a tour of the Edmonton Food Bank, the first food bank established in Canada over 40 years ago. The opportunity to see how other distribution centers and food banks operate was inspiring.

There are countless reasons why someone must knock on the door of a food bank and ask for help. Kawartha Lakes Food Source is very grateful for support from Food Banks Canada, Feed Ontario, and to this community for their support in helping us answer the door.

“We are pleased to support our friends, neighbours and family who many need just a little bit more. We will also continue to advocate for positive policy changes so that our friends, neighbours and family do not need to knock on any doors,” says Kirby.

Those who would like to learn more about, volunteer, or donate to Kawartha Lakes Food Source are encouraged to call 705-324-0707 or visit its website: www.kawarthalakesfoodsource.com.