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Community Food Assistance Network
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Community Food Assistance Network
The Food Bank of Waterloo Region serves as the region’s central hub for food collection, storage, and distribution through the Community Food Assistance Network. By partnering with local organizations providing food support and other vital services, we help make food accessible across Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, and the surrounding townships.
The Network consists of
61 organizations
120+ food assistance programs
Working together, these organizations address hunger by providing:
Food hampers
Fresh, frozen, and non-perishable food
Community meals
Nourishing meals for dine in or take out
Nutritional Outreach
Food packs or temporary cooking program
Shelter and residential meals
Prepared meals for shelter guests or supportive housing residents
The Network ensures that children and adults in every city and township in Waterloo region have access to essential food support close to home.
Become a Network partner or collaboratorTools for Network partners
Email us for first-time access to the tools listed (e.g., Resources, Primarius, Link2Feed) Resources for Network partners Place a food order using Primarius Track visits using Link2Feed
How to partner or collaborate with us
Applications open January 5 to February 27, 2026
We’re excited to welcome new organizations to the Community Food Assistance Network! If your organization is passionate about helping people access nutritious food, this is your chance to join a coordinated Network strategically working together to support communities across Waterloo region.
Why partner with us?
Being part of the Community Food Assistance Network means more than receiving food deliveries. You’ll gain:
- Training to strengthen your food assistance programs while aligning with shared values
- Support for working strategically with other agencies addressing food insecurity
- Tools to engage your community and showcase your work
- Program innovation and pilot opportunities
- Regional data and insights to inform your planning and funding
Who should apply?
We welcome organizations that are passionate about supporting the right to food and addressing food insecurity for individuals and families in Waterloo region.
Interested in becoming a Network partner?
Submit an Expression of Interest (always open!) so we can learn more about your organization and confirm eligibility. If eligible, you’ll be asked to complete a formal partnership application.
Have questions?
- Check out our Frequently Asked Questions
- Watch Partnership Essentials: What You Need to Know (coming soon)
- Contact the Agency Relations team by emailing agency@thefoodbank.ca
Frequently asked questions
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Who can apply to become a partner?
Organizations that are registered charities (in good standing for at least one year) and serve individuals and families living in Waterloo region. Priority is given to agencies providing emergency food assistance (e.g., programs that respond to immediate food needs). Applicant should also align with The Food Bank’s values.
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What if we’re not a registered charity?
You can still apply if you have a sponsoring organization that is a registered charity. The sponsor will need to provide a signed letter of support and will formally hold the partnership on your behalf.
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What are the benefits of becoming a partner?
Partnership means more than food deliveries. You’ll gain access to educational resources, training, and a supportive Network of agencies. We help strengthen your programs, connect you with new opportunities, and amplify your impact in the community.
Partnership is also a two-way relationship. By working together, we learn from your expertise, expand our reach, and ensure the Network reflects the needs of our communities. Your insights help us innovate and improve, making the entire Network stronger and more responsive.
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Why do we start with an Expression of Interest form?
The Expression of Interest form is a quick way to make sure your organization meets requirements and that our goals and values are aligned.
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Is the Expression of Interest form always open?
Yes! The Expression of Interest form is available year-round so you can be notified when formal partnership applications are being accepted.
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What happens after we submit the Expression of Interest form?
If your Expression of Interest form meets our requirements, you’ll be invited to complete a formal partnership application between January 5 and February 27, 2026.
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What happens after we submit the formal partnership application?
You’ll receive a decision the week of April 20, 2026. If your application isn’t approved, we’ll explore whether a collaboration might be a better fit.
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How is collaboration different from partnership?
Collaborations are usually short-term projects or initiatives with community groups, schools, or businesses. They don’t involve ongoing food deliveries but focus on shared goals like events, education, advocacy, or referrals.