Urgent Food Drives Launch to Combat 14% Rise in Demand

URGENT UPDATE: Niagara food banks are launching their annual holiday food drives early as demand surges by 14 percent compared to last year. The 21st annual Great Holiday Food Drive is set for December 12, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., at St. Catharines Market Square. This critical event aims to gather food and financial donations for Community Care of St. Catharines and Thorold, as local food banks brace for an unprecedented increase in need.

New reports reveal that Community Care is already on track to exceed last year’s total of 140,000 meals served by the end of November. “It’s scary considering how many tummies we filled last year,” said operations manager Danielle Cook. She expressed concerns about the sustainability of their services amid rising demand.

The urgency is palpable as Food Banks Canada’s Hunger Report 2025 indicates that food bank usage has doubled since pre-pandemic levels, with visits increasing by 99.4 percent. “We’re all feeling it,” said Betty-Lou Souter, CEO of Community Care. “Nothing is more distressing than knowing some families may not share the joy of the holiday season.”

In Niagara Falls, Project Share reports a 20 percent increase in need compared to last Christmas. Their Stuff the Bus event, running from December 8 to 11, aims to support over 6,300 residents through their Holiday Meal Program. New executive director AJ Heafey emphasized the financial struggles many are facing, making it difficult to provide for their families after paying bills.

Heafey stated, “It’s always concerning, but we’re doing everything we can to ensure we have enough on our shelves.” However, he noted the delicate balance of asking for more support without alienating current donors. “In these difficult economic times, we all feel the pressure to meet increasing demand,” he added.

Both organizations rely entirely on donations to operate. Souter pointed out that cumulative costs for essentials like rent and food have surged by over 20 percent in recent years, while wages have stagnated. “It’s not looking sustainable, which is the scary part,” she reiterated.

As the holiday season approaches, the urgency for support has never been clearer. Local food banks are calling for immediate action from the community to help meet this growing need. With registration for Christmas programs ongoing, the situation remains critical.

For those in Niagara, participating in the holiday food drives or donating can make a significant impact. The time to act is now—help ensure that no family goes hungry this holiday season.