Board member spotlight: Helen Loftin

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at The Food Bank of Waterloo Region—from supporting day-to-day operations to lending a hand at community events. But their impact doesn’t stop there. Volunteers also help lead the organization at the highest level, serving on The Food Bank’s Board of Directors.

One of those dedicated volunteers is Helen Loftin, who joined the Board in January 2026 to help make a meaningful impact in the community she calls home.

“Generally speaking, we are very lucky to live in this community,” Helen says. “But there are huge inequities and unfairness in our region still to be addressed. Food insecurity is one of them. In order to make as large an impact as I can, I want to work with a dedicated team that is tackling the issue straight on. The Food Bank does this and I’m happy to help where I can.”

The Food Bank’s volunteer Board of Directors plays a critical role in guiding the organization’s mission and impact. Meeting throughout the year, Board members provide strategic oversight, governance, and financial stewardship, ensuring The Food Bank remains accountable and effective in its work to address food insecurity. Helen currently serves as a director and sits on the Finance Committee, where she recently participated in the annual budget review process.

“Looking at a budget can give you great insight into how and what an organization is focused on,” she explains. “This year’s process involved prioritizing organizational activities while anticipating both external and internal pressures in the coming year. I appreciate the depth of the conversations we had, the transparency from staff about their day-to-day challenges, and their foresight for the future. I am proud to be a part of the team that gets to weigh in on this central function of the organization. Budgets may not be exciting to some folks, but it’s the fuel for what we want to do at The Food Bank.”

Helen Loftin

Since joining the Board, Helen has gained a deeper understanding of the scale and complexity of The Food Bank’s operations. Between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025, The Food Bank distributed a record-breaking 9.6 million pounds of food to the 61 organizations in the Community Food Assistance Network. Together, those organizations supported nearly 73,000 adults and children experiencing food insecurity across Waterloo region.

“The vast network that the Food Bank supports is remarkable,” Helen says. “We have such a well-run organization with such impact. It’s inspiring to see that reach, given the constraints we face in terms of finances, facilities, and staffing.”

Helen is equally inspired by the people who make that work possible.

“Waterloo region is a great place to be,” she says. “We have generous and informed citizens who care about others in the community. The Food Bank will always be a key non-profit organization in our region. Though I don’t wish for the myriad poverty and food insecurity issues to continue, I know there are enough neighbours to help those in need.”

Although she’s new to the Board, Helen is grateful for the opportunity to contribute alongside others who are also committed to building a stronger, more food-secure community.

“My time with the Board is brief thus far,” she says. “But even in this short period I am so grateful to be with such a group of caring individuals who offer their talents and experience to help guide an organization that is critical and pivotal in our region’s health and livability. We are one community and we must help each other out. It’s the only way.”

If Helen’s story inspires you, there are many ways to get involved. Visit our Volunteer page to explore opportunities and discover how you can make a difference for people facing hunger in Waterloo region.