Kawartha Lakes Food Source is the distribution centre that provides food to ten food banks and 5 social service agencies. On average, our food banks serve 1,000 guests per month. As of March 30, 2020, more than 1,400 guests have been served. This is a 40% increase.

In this time of uncertainty, donations are greatly appreciated. In all of our 18 years of operation, this is the first time we have purchased non-perishable food. We rely heavily on our community for food drives, events and donations. Our community has always been able to help us meet the demand, but now, we are afraid that the need will significantly increase.

In our community, 20% of the workforce is in the accommodations/food service and retail sector. Both of which have been shut down due to the current world pandemic. Our community was already experiencing an unemployment rate of 13% (higher than the national average). With an estimated 30% of our workforce out of work, these families will need help.

We are very grateful and proud of the volunteers and staff of the food banks as they adapt to new operations to ensure they can continue to serve those who do not have enough.