Agency Spotlight: House of Friendship Emergency Food Hampers Program

House of Friendship is a community-based organization that offers a range of programs and services to support individuals and families facing challenges like poverty, mental health issues, addiction, and other social barriers. One of the ways they help is by providing food assistance to people in Kitchener-Waterloo who are experiencing food insecurity.

With food support from The Food Bank of Waterloo Region, House of Friendship operates the Emergency Food Hampers program, which runs Monday to Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 807 Guelph Street in Kitchener.

“The primary role of the Emergency Food Hampers program is to alleviate immediate hunger by providing emergency food,” explains Nadir Attiqi, the program supervisor. “The program helps prevent and reduce the impacts of poverty and hunger in Waterloo region, contributing to a healthy, resilient community where all can belong and thrive.”

On average, they distribute 150 hampers each day. Each hamper includes a variety of fresh, frozen, and non-perishable food. Staple items like pasta and rice are among the most requested at the program.

Inside the House of Friendship Emergency Food Hampers program.

“Accessing a hamper program can make a big difference in people’s lives,” Nadir says. “It helps them get the food they need, especially when money is tight. Access to nutritious food is essential—it improves health, well-being, and even mental state.”

Nadir highlights how food assistance programs go beyond nourishment, providing not only emotional support but also connections to other community resources.

“One important thing to remember about food hamper programs is that we do more than just provide food,” he says. “The program offers hope and dignity during difficult times. For many people, receiving a hamper is a sign that someone cares and that they’re not alone. These programs can also connect individuals to other helpful services, like housing or job support. So, while hampers are not a long-term solution to poverty, they play a vital role in helping people get through tough periods and move toward stability.”

A volunteer at the program.

Though Nadir wishes for meaningful, systemic change to address poverty and food insecurity, he’s still grateful for the immediate difference the program makes for those struggling to afford food.

“The most rewarding part about providing food assistance is seeing the direct impact it has on individuals and families,” he shares. “There’s something deeply fulfilling about knowing that you’re helping someone meet their basic needs, especially when they’re facing difficult circumstances.”

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