Top Five Ways to Support the Food Bank This Holiday Season

There are many ways to support the Calgary Food Bank and for this upcoming holiday season, we have listed the top five.

As we prepare for the season of joy and abundance, we remember this season also goes hand-in-hand with giving and gratefulness. We are grateful for the generosity of donors, sponsors and volunteers. Without their contributions we could not do what we do.  Everyday more people reach out to ask how they too can help. Here five ways you can support the Calgary Food Bank this holiday season.

1. Craft a Reverse Advent Calendar

The  Reverse Advent Calendar is the brainchild of Food Bank supporter, Julie Van Rosendaal, it’s easy and makes it fun for the whole family.

Start with a box that has dividers and for 12 days add one food item from our wish list. This is a great way to engage family and friends. Ask your kids what they would like to add, or challenge friends to contribute. Suddenly it’s mid-December and you have a box full of much-needed items to donate. Bring your donation by the Calgary Food Bank so we can get it out to families right away!

2. Host your own fundraiser

The holidays are filled with company events, dinners, parties and activities, it’s easy to add a charitable giving element. Host your own fundraiser, it can be as simple as having a donation box at your event or as big as hosting a gala or run. The possibilities are endless.

When you register your fundraiser and we can organize the delivery of supplies such as non-perishable food collection boxes, cash donation boxes or banner roll. With advanced notice, we will send a volunteer driver to pick-up the donations after the event. Party planners can also set up a personalized online page for their guests who may prefer to make a secure online donation.

3. Make a tribute gift

Trouble finding that perfect gift? A tribute gift touches the heart, while helping to improve the lives of those facing hunger in our community. Celebrate your friends, family, and colleagues with the gift that keeps on giving. We will send a card with your special message to the loved one you dedicated your gift to. Call us at 403-253-2059 or go online to make your gift.

4. Bundle up and attend an event

There are so many Calgary Food Bank special events happening now through December. Whether they are collecting food and funds, or donating a portion of their sales, it all goes to help feed Calgarians this holiday and into the New Year. There is something for everyone!  

Mark your calendars for A Christmas Carol, the Holiday Train, Knox United Choral Festival and Santa at the Farmer Market, just to name a few. Truly a fun way to bring family and friends together plus give back to the community!

5. Volunteer!

The gift of time we receive from volunteers is precious and treasured. Whether it’s you or with your friends, family or colleagues, you can give the gift of time and help others in the community.

When you volunteer even just one shift to sort donations, create hampers or distribute food, your selfless efforts will make sure that a food insecure family or individual will have a happier holiday.

We love to see what you are up to. Share your stories of volunteering, giving and holiday cheer – tag us on Social Media @calgaryfoodbank.