Woolwich Community Services (WCS) provides a variety of programs for residents in the township of Woolwich and the northern part of Wellesley township. Some of the programs they offer include transportation services, employment services, income tax clinics, family violence prevention, a backpack program, and a birthday program. They also provide several food assistance programs.

“We are here to serve the people, listen to their needs, and find out how we can support them through various programs,” explains Lisa Martin, the food bank and volunteer coordinator at WCS.

One of the food assistance programs they offer is a hamper program. It runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. by appointment for individuals and families.

“We go through a grocery list of all the items we have, so we can make it very specific. They can choose exactly what they and their household would like, would use, and what works for them,” Lisa says. “It’s all about choice.”

In addition to its monthly food hamper program, WCS offers other assistance programs. Every Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., individuals and families can access fresh bread and buns through the weekly bread program. During the school year, the Lunch Crunch program also runs on Mondays during the same hours, helping parents provide nutritious food for their children to take to school. On Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m., WCS runs a fresh food program, supported by The Food Bank of Waterloo Region, where participants can access fruits and vegetables. Each week, up to 80 households benefit from this program.

“It’s to help them through their week, reducing stress and freeing up extra money for essentials like rent and gas,” Lisa says.

Lisa highlights that their food assistance programs provide more than just nourishment. She explains that accessing these programs often serves as a gateway to other essential resources and support.

“It’s more than just receiving food,” Lisa says. “Food is essential, but it’s also about building relationships and the trust. That way, we can share the other programs that we offer here, because there’s usually much more going on in people’s lives than just the need for food.”

Above all, Lisa wants those experiencing food insecurity to know that help is available whenever they need it.

“It’s about treating people with dignity, giving them choices, and making them feel like they matter,” she says.

Woolwich Community Services is one of 54 organizations in the Community Food Assistance Network. Visit woolwichcommunityservices.org to learn more. If you’d like to help The Food Bank support Network partners like Woolwich Community Services, visit our Get Involved section on our website to learn more about donating food, funds, or time.