Community Food Assistance Network

Need Food?

The Food Bank of Waterloo Region supports the Community Food Assistance Network, a system of 120+ community programs and agency partners and does not provide food from its location.

For information on food assistance services across Waterloo region and for inquiries about food hamper deliveries call the Centralized Referral Line which operates Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. The phone line is closed on holidays and weekends and will respond to messages within one business day.

Call 519.743.5576 extension 340

Email needfood@thefoodbank.ca

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use the Referral map?

  1. Click the View larger map icon on the top right-side of the map. A new tab browser window will open. View larger map
  2. When the map opens in the new tab browser window, click the Search icon and type in your address to find the closest program. Search icon
  3.  Click any of the Map marker icons for more information about the program.        Click on a map marker

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.

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
Saturdays 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Food Not Bombs
Kitchener City Hall – 200 King St W, Kitchener
Saturdays 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm

Vineyard
147 Elgin Street N., Cambridge
519-623-4639
Saturdays 6:00pm -8:30pm

Sunday

Salvation Army Meal Program
Kitchener City Hall – 200 King St W, Kitchener
Sundays 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Ray of Hope Community Centre
659 King Street East, Kitchener
519-578-8018
Sundays 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm

Vineyard
147 Elgin Street N., Cambridge
519-623-4639
Sundays 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

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)

Use the map to find your closest food assistance program

(college and university students should contact their on-campus food support program. Review the Frequently Asked Questions for more information)