London Cares Curb Hunger Campaign collects 86,700 pounds of food

Thanks to generous support from residents, businesses and community partners, the London Cares Curb Hunger Campaign collected the equivalent of 86,700 pounds of food between May 28 and June 8. 

“I am always amazed by the generosity of Londoners. The London Cares Curb Hunger campaign is an expression of love and support for those in need – it represents our city at its very best," says Mayor Josh Morgan. “Thank you to everyone who has already donated, and to those who will continue to donate their extra harvest throughout the summer and fall months."

The breakdown of the 86,700 pounds is as follows:

• 16,860 pounds were dropped off at grocery stores, fire halls and the London Food Bank
• 27,760 pounds were received through corporate donations
• 27,870 pounds were received through the Community Refresh program
• The equivalent of 18,210 pounds were received through financial donations ($65,191 at $3.58 per pound as reported by Food Banks Canada) 

The London Cares Curb Hunger food campaign is now in its 29^th year and is the longest running partnership of its kind in Canada. The annual campaign raises awareness of the London Food Bank and the need for support during the summer months, which is traditionally a slower period for food donations. 

“These are challenging times, and we were hearing that the Curb Hunger Food Drive would likely be down this year,” says Glen Pearson, Co-Executive Director, London Food Bank. “We understood that reality since Londoners are facing so many economic pressures at the moment, plus the threat of tariffs. Plus, last year was a banner year for the drive.

“So it is with a sentiment of great thankfulness and appreciation to the London community that we have reached a similar amount to last year. And items are still being donated. Londoners have let us know that they have planted rows of vegetables in their gardens, which will be delivered to the food bank when harvested. This is a wonderful surprise and so like this community to give all that they can to help vulnerable citizens. We thank everyone.”

The campaign is more than just a food drive – it also encourages Londoners to donate their extra produce they grow throughout the harvest season. 

How to continue to participate:

• Drop off fresh items from your home garden directly to London Food Bank (926 Leathorne Street)
• Plant a Row, Grow a Row: Sign up to Grow-a-Row for the London Food Bank in their backyard or community gardens
• Adopt a Plot: Sign up to adopt a garden bed at the London Food Bank to grow vegetables for client hampers