Target, Loblaw feted at Food Banks Canada awards
A record snowfall couldn't dampen the mood at the annual Food Banks Canada donor awards on February 5 at Toronto's the Boulevard Club.
Target Canada, Loblaw and Farm Credit Canada were acknowledged for their outstanding contributions in addressing hunger in Canada.
“Every day we are reminded of the considerable need to provide assistance to Canadians who are living with hunger and I am proud to be able to recognize a number of our outstanding corporate supporters who have offered their commitment to this issue,” said Brian Fraser, chair of the board, Food Banks Canada. “On behalf of the hundreds of thousands of men, women and children who are assisted each and every day, thank you to our leading partners who have joined us in alleviating hunger.”
GALLERY: See award recipients here
The Donor of the Year was awarded to Loblaw Companies Limited for its twice annual national Extra Helping food and fund drive. In 2013, the campaign realized its most successful year since launch by raising more than $1.9 million and more than 1.5 million pounds of food. Loblaw also continues to be the leading supporter of the National Food Sharing System, a national food acquisition program that ensures food is distributed to food banks right across the country.
The Innovator of the Year was presented to Target for its unique approach to philanthropy and community. Before entering the Canadian market, Target identified hunger as a priority area for community investment. Target has demonstrated excellent staff training and is becoming a leader in providing much-needed perishable and non-perishable foods to local food bank.
The Award of Excellence was presented to Farm Credit Canada (FCC) for its long-term commitment in raising food and funds to support the food bank network across the country. FCC employees across the country lead the charge on this campaign each fall and with their outstanding commitment the annual food drive raised over $1.7 million and almost 2.5 million lbs. of food in 2013.
Food Banks Canada figures show that close to 850,000 Canadians turn to a food bank each month for assistance, and over 3.9 million are food insecure.