Our Programs
Orangeville Food Bank Runs Several Programs
We strive to ensure that no one goes hungry in our community.
To work towards this goal, Orangeville Food Bank has initiated several programs.
These programs include our Monthly Seniors Markets, our Food Delivery Program, our Neighbours Community Markets, as well as the associated Produce Box program, and our popular Community Vending Machine Program. We also run a Community Gardens Program, and a Community Kitchen Program.
Monthly Seniors Market
Seniors’ markets consist of fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, and milk delivered directly to the homes of over 60 seniors in Dufferin County senior's housing at no cost to the seniors. This program has been in operation since 2018 growing from one market to three.
Food Delivery Program
Delivery is provided to those with mobility issues who cannot physically access the food bank. It was initially introduced as a response to Covid to allow people to quarantine when needed and keep seniors and those that were immunocompromised safe at home, and now has developed into a program that serves those with mobility issues, as well as those without access to transit.
Neighbours Community Market
Neighbours Community Market is a sliding-scale weekly produce market that strives to make fresh food more accessible to community members. Fresh produce is priced on a sliding scale with the reduced end being approximately 50% below market value to the other end with grocery store prices. By paying retail prices community members pay it forward to support those in need and make access to nutritious foods accessible to all.
Community Vending Machine
In 2023 It is our goal to bring food to people. By introducing the vending machine; people can purchase lunch and snack options created by our chef and volunteers at only 25¢ per item, making it accessible for all community members. This machine is located at the Mill Street Library at 1 Mill Street, in the lower level . Over 437 meals and snacks were made last year for the vending machine.
Community Garden
Each year our community garden provides over 2,000 pounds of fresh produce to our community members. This garden not only provides food it also allows opportunities for volunteering and paid student positions during the summer months through the Government of Canada 'Canada Summer Jobs' (CSJ) wage subsidy program. This program provides not-for-profit employers funds to create quality summer work experience for young people aged 15 to 30 years.
Community Kitchen
Chef Mark joined the OFB team in August of 2022 as our Community Kitchen Coordinator. Chef Mark creates meals with excess products found at the food bank. He is also able to make purchases for fresh produce, seasonings, cooking fats etc... Last year over 1,400 meals were prepared!
Each year we host between 8 and 12 workshops aimed at children, or adults, or both. Chef Mark organizes and facilitates most of these workshops in our kitchen Community Kitchen. In these workshops, participants learn recipes and techniques to enrich their cooking. Our workshops are for all levels of skill!
