When residents walk into a local Tim Hortons and purchase a Smile Cookie this week, they’re doing more than getting themselves a sweet treat.
Proceeds from the sale of each cookie will be donated to the Cambridge Food Bank and Nutrition for Learning, with each organization receiving 50 per cent of the profits.
Dianne McLeod, executive director of the food bank, was thrilled when she heard the application her team submitted to be one of the recipients had been accepted.
It isn’t the first time Tim Hortons restaurant owners have displayed generosity toward to the food bank.
“Tim Hortons owners in Cambridge have been long time supporters of the Cambridge Food Bank,” McLeod said.
“They’ve collected donations for us during our food drives, made financial contributions and allowed us to send many youth who participate in our programs to Tim Hortons camp.”
Food insecurity continues to be a challenge many in the community are facing, McLeod says.
In March 2023, visits had increased 59 per cent from the same time in 2022.
With summer traditionally being the lowest donation period of the year, fundraisers like Smile Cookie are vital to its sustainability.
“The money will be used to fund the operations of the food bank,” McLeod said.
“The dramatic increase in need means we're purchasing more food than ever. We've set an ambitious fundraising goal this year of $1.3 million to ensure our shelves stay stocked and our health and wellness programs can continue to meet the needs of those we serve.”
With 32 per cent of food bank visitors being children, Nutrition for Learning is trying to combat a similar problem by addressing the issue in schools.
The charitable organization, based in Ayr, offers access to nutrition programs in schools located in Waterloo Region.
In total, it supports 176 student programs across the Waterloo Region District School Board, Waterloo Catholic District School Board and the French Language Public School Board.
Being involved in a national fundraiser like Smile Cookie also has its perks when it comes to recognition and spreading the word.
It’s another step in the food bank's efforts to stand out in hopes of better serving the community, McLeod says.
“The Cambridge Food Bank is one of the most innovative food banks in the country, there’s a reason we're known to be 'more than a food bank',” she said.
“A large campaign like this has the ability to bring attention to the food bank and our incredible health promotion work, environmental sustainability practices and early intervention programs for young people. There are some folks that don't know about the breadth and depth of services we offer and we hope members of our community will take the time to connect with us and learn more.”
For more information on the Cambridge Food Bank and Nutrition for Learning visit cambridgefoodbank.org and nutritionforlearning.ca.