Why your gift means more than ever

Every day, I see firsthand the incredible difference our donors’ generosity makes. But today, I want to share these stories with you so you can truly understand the impact of your support.

The need in our community is growing at an alarming rate. Each month, more than 1,300 people turn to our local food banks for help because they can no longer keep up with the rising cost of living in Kawartha Lakes. As children return to school, parents are facing additional costs for school supplies and lunches, stretching their already limited budgets even further.

When I think about kids going to school hungry, or parents struggling to provide a simple breakfast before class, I’m reminded of why our work is so vital. Kawartha Lakes Food Source (KLFS) plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between a child’s hunger and their ability to succeed in school. The fresh produce, nutritious meals, and essential groceries we distribute? They’re all made possible by our generous community of donors and volunteers.

I’ve witnessed the power of a simple bag of groceries to bring tears of joy and relief to families who are just trying to get by. One of our new clients recently shared how receiving fresh fruit for the first time in months brought them immense happiness.

These are the realities we face every day. And that’s why I’m sharing these stories with you.

We support 25 local schools through our Grab & Grow program, providing milk and fresh fruit to students in need.

Our hunger count reveals two groups who are increasingly relying on food security programs. First, there are working families, single or two-parent households with children, who often juggle multiple low-wage jobs. The working poor now make up 20 per cent of our client base. Second, there’s a significant rise in the number of seniors seeking support. Their numbers have grown by 13 per cent, many of whom didn’t anticipate the high costs of living and medical expenses.

Nearly all of our food banks in Kawartha Lakes are run by volunteers. Kawartha Lakes Food Source is proud to be the umbrella organization that supports nine member agencies and more than 22 partners, ensuring a steady and reliable flow of food to those who need it most.

I want to take a moment to thank our community partners, volunteers, businesses, and individual donors for your unwavering support. Your kindness is making a real difference in the lives of those who are struggling. Together, we are showing up for our neighbors, friends, and family members who need us most.

Let’s continue working together to ensure that every child, senior, and individual in our community has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

If you’re looking for the best way to support us right now, visit kawarthalakesfoodsource.com and choose Donate Now. You gift really makes a difference.