Prime Minister Announces Support for Food Banks and Local Food Organizations

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced an investment of $100 million to improve access to food for Canadians facing social, economic, and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Salvation Army is grateful to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Government of Canada for $5 million in funding as part of the $100 million investment.

“Many Canadians rely on food banks and local food organizations to feed their families and find support in hard times. Now, with more Canadians turning to these supports, and donations and available volunteers decreasing, they need our help more than ever. Today, we are giving food agencies the support they need to keep helping Canadians through this difficult time.”—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

“The Salvation Army is meeting extraordinary challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Lt-Colonel John P. Murray, spokesperson for The Salvation Army. “Many of our more than 200 community and family services offices across the country have seen a rise in the usage of food banks since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are truly grateful to the Government of Canada for their support as we continue to deliver our essential services to those who need us most.”

The Salvation Army began its work in Canada in 1882, serving the vulnerable. At work in more than 400 communities across the country, The Salvation Army has grown to become one of Canada’s largest non-governmental provider of social services. An organization that has people at the core of its mission, they have taken unprecedented measures during COVID-19—altered its programs and service delivery—to ensure that those who rely on them for help, stay healthy and safe.