Our Story
From Humble Beginnings to a Beacon of Hope: The Feed Scarborough Journey
In 2018, Feed Scarborough began as a small initiative, distributing holiday hampers in December. Little did anyone know that this modest effort would evolve into a cornerstone of social support for Scarborough. The transformation truly began in March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. As food banks shuttered and the need for assistance surged, Suman Roy, the founder of Feed Scarborough, galvanized a dedicated team. They swiftly organized and delivered groceries to over 1,000 households left vulnerable by the closures.
Today, Feed Scarborough has grown into a vital organization operating six food banks and a mobile healthy meal program that serves over 2,000 weekly meals from a food truck. The organization also manages three community gardens and two farmers' markets, and it previously ran vaccine clinics that administered over 7,000 doses.
Feed Scarborough's mission is clear: to drive community empowerment by providing innovative solutions to poverty reduction and dignified access to food. The organization firmly believes that good, healthy food is a human right. This belief underpins a comprehensive strategy designed to alleviate food insecurity through both immediate assistance and long-term support.
Their emergency food access programs include grocery store food banks, an online food bank, a healthy meal program, The Canteen, farmers markets, and a vaccine program. Long-term support and community programs encompass a business incubator (StartUP Scarborough), a culinary training program, skill-building programs, wellness programs, and community gardens. Policy and advocacy efforts focus on research, community events, and awareness programs.
A highlight of Feed Scarborough's initiatives is the FLIP Kitchens & Food Hall, a hub for food learning and innovation where students receive training to start their own food businesses. This initiative is part of Feed Scarborough's broader goal: to eradicate food banks by investing in programs that tackle the root causes of food insecurity. By focusing on sustainable solutions rather than temporary relief, the organization envisions a future where no one needs to rely on food banks for survival.
Every week, Feed Scarborough serves over 7,500 residents, making it a lifeline for countless families. Their dedication to addressing food insecurity while promoting dignity within the community is nothing short of remarkable. Through innovative programs and unwavering commitment, Feed Scarborough continues to build a stronger, more resilient community for all.
We Need Your Help
Just $5.20 can feed a community member with groceries for a week. Would you sacrifice a coffee to ensure that your neighbour has their basic Human Right.