Community Food Assistance Network
Need Food?
The Food Bank of Waterloo Region supports the Community Food Assistance Network, which includes over 120 agencies and community programs. The Food Bank does not provide food from its location.
For information on food assistance services in Waterloo region or to ask about food hamper deliveries, call the Centralized Food Assistance Outreach line. The line is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to noon, but closed on holidays and weekends. Messages are answered within one business day.
Call 519.743.5576 extension 340
Email needfood@thefoodbank.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use the referral map?
- Click the View larger map icon on the top right-side of the map. A new tab browser window will open.
- When the map opens in the new tab browser window, click the Search icon and type in your address to find the closest program.
- Click any of the Map marker icons for more information about the program.
I am a post-secondary student where do I access food support?
Food assistance is available to people unable to afford the food they need. You may for example, be skipping meals or reducing the size of your meals because there is not enough money for more food. If you are in need of food, request support from your on-campus program. Use the following information to contact the university or college you are attending for support. If you have additional questions call 519.743.5576 extension 340.
- For students at the University of Waterloo, contact the WUSA Food Support Service. Visit their website and complete the request form.
- For students at Conestoga College, contact the SNAP service. Visit their website and email (CSIfoodbank@conestogac.on.ca) them with a request for support.
- For students at Wilfrid Laurier University, contact the Student Union Food Bank. Visit their website and complete the request form.
Is food assistance available on the weekend?
There are meal programs operating throughout the region on Saturdays and Sundays. Below is a list of the meal programs available.
Saturday
Ray of Hope Community Centre
659 King Street East, Kitchener
519.578.8018
Noon–1:30 p.m.
Food Not Bombs
Kitchener City Hall, 200 King Street West, Kitchener
4:30–5:30 p.m.
Vineyard
147 Elgin Street North, Cambridge
519.623.4639
6–8:30 p.m.
Sunday
Salvation Army Meal Program
Kitchener City Hall, 200 King Street West, Kitchener
Noon–1:30 p.m.
Ray of Hope Community Centre
659 King Street East, Kitchener
519.578.8018
4:30–6 p.m.
Vineyard
147 Elgin Street North, Cambridge
519.623.4639
11 a.m.–2 p.m.
What do I need to bring with me to access food?
- Please bring a piece of ID for each household member. This is helpful but not required.
- When attending a food hamper program please also bring some re-usable bags.
What will happen when I arrive at the program?
- You will be greeted and have the opportunity to answer some intake questions. You may choose to remain anonymous and still receive food.
What will I receive when I go to a hamper program?
- Fresh, frozen, and non-perishable items are typically available. Programs do their best to meet dietary considerations for your household.
- Look for best before dates marked as BBD on most food items. Best before dates are not expiry dates. Best before dates tell consumers that the unopened product should be at highest quality until the posted date. Reference this guide to using food past a best before date.
Where can I find a list of additional community supports and resources? (Animal care, baby products, employment services, housing supports)
- For baby products and supports for infants contact The Pregnancy Centre at 519.886.4001
- For supports to families with children under the age of 17 contact Family Outreach Workers at 519.742.8327 extension 240
- For pet foods contact The Humane Society of Kitchener-Waterloo at 226.220.7885
- For employment support, financial assistance, housing and shelter services visit the Region of Waterloo Community Services Page.