Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security Commends Swift and Generous Government Action to Support Emergency Food Relief

MISSISSAUGA, ON, April 3, 2020 /CNW/ - The Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security commended the Prime Minister's announcement today of $100 million to support emergency food organizations to meet the needs of vulnerable Canadians.

"The federal government has meaningfully engaged with, listened and responded to the needs of front-line emergency food organizations who are struggling to meet surging demand as the COVID-19 pandemic escalates," said Lynda Kuhn, Chair of the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security. "We laud the government for its action and ongoing collaboration to support the needs of all Canadians during this crisis, especially those who face monumental challenges to feed their families."

Food insecurity is a widespread issue in Canada, affecting one in eight households, including one in six children. This is not a food availability issue, it is a poverty issue, which disproportionately impacts low income households and minority group populations. Its impact is pervasive and defies stereotypes, with over 60% of food insecure Canadians in the workforce. The COVID-19 pandemic is not only driving a surge in demand but requiring organizations to significantly shift their services to support the health and safety of their clients and staff.         

About the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security:

The Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security (the Centre) is a registered charity committed to working collaboratively, across sectors, to reduce food insecurity in Canada by 50% by 2030. The Centre advocates for critical public policies and works with innovative food-based programs that advance the capacity of people and communities to achieve sustainable food security. 

The Centre was created in 2016 and is governed by a board of directors, including four independent experts. Since its inception, Maple Leaf has contributed a minimum of 1% pre-tax profits annually to support the Centre and other community investments, totalling over $10 million in financial contributions and gifts-in-kind. The Centre builds on its strong connection with Maple Leaf, enabling greater public awareness, volunteer participation and skills matching to increase capacity in community-based organizations. 

SOURCE The Maple Leaf Centre For Action On Food Security