Every year we participate in the Canada-wide Toonies For Tummies campaign, and every year our customers step up to support the Grocery Foundation’s efforts to feed hungry children.
2021 was no exception.
We’d like to thank Vince’s customers for raising $3,000 to help purchase meals for local kids who would otherwise go to school without breakfast. We are one of nearly 1,350 grocery retailers across the country to participate in an initiative that has raised more than $22 million since 2000, and had set a goal of $2.75 million for 2021.
We just learned that TFT has raised $3.5 million nationally, which is great news due to the increased costs from the pandemic. The added funds will help offset the need for individually portioned meals, and the many more people required to collect, pack, and distribute the food, hampers, and gift cards. These higher costs also include staffing the programs when they are able to operate from inside the school.
As usual, we asked customers to “Take the Toonie Challenge” while checking out their groceries. This small amount added up quickly, accounting for the majority of our donations, although larger contributions could be made online through the Grocery Foundation’s website.
Although we live in a wealthy country, it is shocking how many families are struggling to purchase necessities – like groceries. Prior to the pandemic, roughly one in five children were at risk of food insecurity. By the end of 2020, experts warned this figure could double, with nearly one in three children now at risk.
We are grateful to the Grocery Foundation for their efforts to feed hungry children, and are equally grateful to our customers for consistently supporting Toonies for Tummies – and all our community efforts.
Take care everybody.
— Neil
