Cambridge Food Bank Launches FoodForward Campaign for Businesses

The Cambridge Food Bank has introduced a new initiative called the FoodForward campaign, inviting businesses in the Waterloo Region to engage in community service through hands-on activities. The campaign aims to raise funds that will go directly towards enhancing food security programs.

The FoodForward initiative features immersive workshops and team-building experiences focused on food rescue, sustainable practices, and community engagement. Dianne McLeod, CEO of the Cambridge Food Bank, emphasized the opportunity for companies to bring their employees together for a meaningful experience.

“Teams will come in, they can cook, sort food, garden alongside us,” McLeod explained during an interview with 570 NewsRadio. “They’ll see the Food Bank in action, learn new skills, and gain a deeper understanding of food insecurity in our community.” These engaging experiences are designed not only to provide essential support but also to foster empathy and reduce stigma surrounding food insecurity.

The food bank aims to recruit 52 corporate groups to participate in these team-building experiences, with the goal of generating approximately $42,000 to support its operations. Non-profit and community organizations are also encouraged to contribute, whether through food donations or fundraising efforts.

The Cambridge Food Bank expressed gratitude to the Waterloo Region Community Foundation for its 2024 Community Grants, which provided funding for the branding, pilot, and launch of the FoodForward campaign.

Businesses interested in participating can easily book their sessions online, contributing not only to the food bank’s mission but also gaining valuable insights into the challenges faced by those experiencing food insecurity. By participating in this initiative, companies can make a tangible impact while enhancing team cohesion and awareness within their organizations.