Commentary, Opinion

Monthly Message: How local gardens, farmers and businesses help keep the food bank stocked with fresh produce

July 17, 2025   ·   0 Comments

Summer is one of our busiest seasons at the Alliston Food Bank — not just because more people need support, but because it’s also when our community truly comes together. We start seeing baskets, boxes, and even crates of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and more coming through our doors, all donated by people who simply want to help make sure everyone has access to good, healthy food.

One of the most generous supporters we have this time of year is the St. John’s United Church Garden. The team of volunteers who look after that garden work incredibly hard to grow fresh veggies like squash, beans, leafy greens — you name it. 

Week after week, their beautiful produce comes straight to us, and it’s clear how much care they put into every single harvest. We’re so thankful for everything they do.

We’re also very lucky to have the continued support of Knox Presbyterian Church. Their members not only collect donations regularly, but many of them also bring in fresh produce from their own gardens. It’s such a great reminder that even a few extra zucchinis or tomatoes can brighten someone’s day and add something special to a family’s meals.

And it’s not just churches and organizations — it’s individuals from all over town. Whether it’s a backyard gardener with a little extra or someone dropping off herbs from their balcony planter, it all adds up. More people are planting a little extra just to share, and it’s honestly one of the most heartwarming parts of the summer — seeing neighbours stop by with whatever they’ve grown, wanting to make sure it goes to someone who could really use it.

We also couldn’t do what we do without the amazing local businesses and farms that continue to support us.

Murphy’s Farm Market & Bakery regularly donates fresh produce when they’re able, and it makes such a difference. Being able to offer locally grown fruits and vegetables to our clients is such a gift, especially right now when so many people are trying to stretch every dollar. They also generously donate baked goods, which are always a welcome treat and help add a little extra comfort to the hampers we provide.

We’re also thankful for Beattie Farms, who donate carrots and onions, and Ontario Potato Distribution Inc. (OPDI), who provide us with fresh potatoes. These staple vegetables are key items in our food hampers, and their donations help us keep those essentials available for families who need them.

Sheldon Creek Dairy has also been a huge help. They donate milk, yogurt, and cream on a regular basis, things that aren’t always easy for us to provide. Their support allows us to offer some truly valuable nutrition to families who need it most.

We also want to thank Brilliant Meadows Farm, who generously contribute farm-fresh eggs. Protein-rich items like these are especially important and often in high demand. Their ongoing support helps us ensure that our clients have access to the nutritious staples they need.

We also want to say a big thank-you to the Pet Pantry. They share any extra pet food they receive, and it’s so appreciated. For families who are already doing their best to make ends meet, knowing they can feed their pets too is one less worry, and it means a lot.

Every one of these donations, whether it’s a bag of carrots, a loaf of bread, or a jug of milk, helps us meet the growing need in our community. These acts of generosity go far beyond just food; they show care, dignity, and a true sense of togetherness.

If you have a garden and end up with more than you need this summer, we’d be happy to put it to good use. Fresh produce donations can be dropped off at the Alliston Food Bank (52 Wellington Street West) on Tuesdays between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m., Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., or Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 6:45 p.m. And if you’re a local business interested in supporting our work, we’d love to connect; just reach out!

Every little bit helps. And truly, every tomato, every loaf of bread, and every jug of milk makes a difference to someone.

Thank you to everyone who supports us. We couldn’t do this without you.

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