EMERGENCY FOOD HAMPERS

Choice Model

Apr 25, 2025

Providing Options

Calgary Food Bank staff with crates of fresh vegetables

We first piloted our client choice model in October of 2024. After a successful test run, this method of distribution became a standard offering to all Calgary Food Bank clients accessing an Emergency Food Hamper at our main location.

Our choice model gives clients the chance to choose what goes into their hamper. At the beginning of the check in process, they are passed a tablet that outlines the different categories: pantry staples, grains, and protein as well as the points they are allotted to “spend” in each category. Fresh fruit, vegetables, and deli items are added to their hamper based on what is in stock.

We also expanded the variety of items that we’re offering! In addition to classic items like peanut butter or canned goods we’re offering kitchen fundamentals like oil and flour.

The data has shown:

95% like the food choices.
76% say it suits their dietary restrictions better than our old model.
73% say it suits their cultural requirements more than our old model.
76% say they are able to use more food than the old model.
82% say they are able to save more on groceries than the old model.

Here is what our clients have had to say:

“I agree now about how we were asked about the choices. I think food will be consumed and I can think of better menus each meal.”

“This was my first experience with the new food choice model. I like that you can pick what you will consume and not have food go to waste. Keep up the great work that you do.”

Implementing this choice model was made possible throughthe generous support of the community including many dedicated staff and volunteer hours following continual improvement best practices.

We are also proud to say that we are the first major food bank to adopt this method of food distribution. In the very near future we will be executing a shopping model at our new branch location, set to open in the Summer of 2025.