North York Harvest holds best-ever food drive

Thanks to the generosity of northern Toronto residents, the North York Harvest Food Bank held its best-ever winter food drive, raising more than 130,000 pounds of food – almost a third more than was collected in 2008.

“Even though many people are still hurting from the economic downtown, the community really came through by helping us exceed our expectations,” said Anette Chawla, Executive Director of the North York Harvest Food Bank. “It’s heartening to see that when times are tough, people are dedicated more than ever to help others in need.”

North York Harvest would like to thank the individuals, community organizations, Toronto Fire Services and businesses such as Loblaw and Metro grocery stores that made the food drive a success.

The effects of the recession are expected to continue well into 2010 after food bank use in 2009 increased by 20 per cent. Financial donations are still being accepted online through CanadaHelps.org or by phone with a credit card by calling 416-635-7771. Cheques can be mailed to: North York Harvest Food Bank, 640 Lawrence Ave West, Toronto, ON M6A 1B1. Nutritious, non-perishable food items can be dropped off at local fire halls in northern Toronto and participating supermarkets.