Comments Off on “The difference is dignity”: How FoodReach supports Toronto’s shelter and drop-in network
Every weekday, The Common Table at Church of the Redeemer opens its doors to some of Toronto’s most vulnerable residents.
With just four staff and more than 80 volunteers, the program serves approximately 250 meals a day, alongside outreach services, housing support, harm reduction, psychotherapy, clothing programs, art therapy, and even a quiet, safe place where community members can rest.
“The fact that people feel safe enough and trust us enough to come in and sleep says a lot about the kind of space we’re trying to create,” says Beverley Galandzy, Volunteer/Kitchen Coordinator and Outreach Worker at The Common Table.
But as food costs continue to rise and demand grows, maintaining that level of care has become increasingly challenging.
“We’re running out of food more often than ever,” Beverley says. “Our grocery bills have quadrupled since before COVID. We stretch every dollar we can.”
That’s where a program from the City of Toronto comes in — with support from our social enterprise FoodReach.
Healthy, local food for people who need it most
Creating Health Plus (CH+) helps shelters and drop-in meal programs access fresh, healthy ingredients to supplement their food programs, including dairy, protein, seasonal produce, and other essentials.
FoodReach forms the logistics backbone of CH+ — coordinating deliveries for shelters and drop-in meal programs across Toronto.
As a social enterprise of North York Harvest, FoodReach operates on a mission-first model: Every decision and every delivery puts food security first.
FoodReach offers a diverse food catalogue with 70% of items sourced locally; strengthening the non-profit food supply chain while supporting local businesses.
The Common Table reconnected with CH+ last year, and now has consistent access to fresh, nutritious ingredients that would otherwise be difficult to afford.
“It’s been incredibly helpful,” Beverley says. “This is one of the most comfortable times we’ve had because of the food we’re receiving.”
CH+ recipients can order add-ons to their standardized weekly delivery directly through FoodReach, which offers some flexibility for programs to customize the food they receive based on the unique needs of their communities.
“Access to fresh eggs allows us to prepare more nutritious breakfasts, while the cheese helps make those breakfasts — as well as scones and casseroles — more hearty and satisfying,” says Beverley. “Having fresh milk for coffee and tea instead of powdered milk or coffee whitener makes a noticeable difference in both quality and dignity for our members.”
For people experiencing homelessness, these improvements matter.
“Overall, our meal program has become far more robust, delicious, and nutritious,” says Beverley. “Nourishing, high-quality food supports both physical health and a sense of care and respect.”
We are grateful to partner with the City on such an impactful program, so non-profits like the Common Table can continue doing what they do best: Caring for their community and serving food that is both healthy and dignified.
Comments are closed