CAA Niagara is taking up the fight against hunger in a major food drive covering the entire Niagara region.
As the pandemic continues to put pressure on area food banks, donations have been decreasing with a 50 percent decline compared to the beginning of the pandemic - something that is expected to increase once the Canada Recovery Benefit expires in September.
“In light of these challenging times, The Big Food Boost will set out to collect non-perishables from both CAA Members and non-Members in each community within Niagara with the donations being divided between eight food agencies across the region,” said CAA in a statement.
Those who wish to participate by putting a non-perishable donation outside their home can pre-register for pick-up at caaniagara.ca/bigfoodboost. Registration is open through Monday, August 16th. Non-perishables should be placed outside by 9:00 am on August 28th. CAA Niagara will also be accepting walk-in food donations at its five Branches (Thorold, Welland, St. Catharines, Grimsby, and Niagara Falls) between August 23rd–28th during its regular hours of operation. Residents are not required to pre-register to drop off non-perishables at a club Branch.
The Big Food Boost is part of CAA Niagara’s Big Boost, which was initially launched as a one-time extension of the club’s annual Community Boost program in 2020. Big Boost has since been revived for 2021 and will see a total of $100,000 donated to 14 pre-selected local charities, in addition to the food drive.
To learn more about The Big Food Boost and see a list of recommended food items, please visit caaniagara.ca/bigfoodboost.
