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Fight food insecurity in Dufferin County with the 12th Annual Compass Run for Food

April 3, 2025   ·   0 Comments

By Sam Odrowski

As the snow melts and season changes, many residents welcome the return of opportunities for outdoor exercise.

Some of the best ways to stay physically active outside are by walking, jogging or sprinting, and a local fundraiser will get participants doing just that.

The Compass Run for Food is returning to the community, with Compass Community Church being the start point on June 14.

The 12^th Annual Compass Run for Food brings people to together a single purpose – battling food insecurity in Dufferin County.

“Food insecurity impacts thousands in our community, leading to poor health, increased poverty, and social inequality. This event directly supports food banks in Orangeville, Grand Valley, and Shelburne, as well as school nutrition programs and other initiatives that help individuals and families access nutritious food,” reads a press release from the Compass Run For Food. “All proceeds from the run will be donated directly to those organizations that tackle food insecurity. Every dollar you contribute goes directly to those in need.”

The Orangeville Food Bank (OFB) has seen a significant increase in the number of people it serves over the past several years.

The OFB currently provides food to 1,400 individuals monthly, 32 per cent of which are children, and has seen a 94 per cent increase in demand since the pandemic.

While over 50,000 pounds of food are distributed by the OFB each month, it only receives 20,000 pounds in donations, so more food is needed to ensure this not-for-profit organization remains sustainable.

“In 2024, the food bank’s budget is projected to be $1.4 million to meet this demand. Both Grand Valley and Shelburne food banks have experienced similar increases over the past year,” reads Compass Run For Food’s press release.

“School nutrition programs in Dufferin County play a crucial role by providing students with nutritious meals essential for their health and academic success. These programs help reduce food insecurity, support local economies, and promote sustainability.”

The Compass Run for Food is for everyone, from first-time runners to families and school groups.

Participants can choose from a few different routes. There is a five-kilometre walk/run, a 10.5-kilometre run, team challenge and kids challenge.

“Not only will you feel a sense of accomplishment after finishing the course, but you can also take pride in knowing that 100 per cent of your registration fee will support local food insecurity initiatives that help feed our community in Dufferin County,” reads Compass Run For Food’s press release.

“Your support is vital. Whether you register for the run, donate, or choose to become a corporate sponsor, together we can bridge the gap between the resources food banks and schools receive and the funding they need to continue their operations. By supporting the Compass Run for Food, you will be directly helping families in need.”

The annual run has raised $532,000 since its inception in 2014, and this year, organizers are hoping to raise $85,000.

“We are very passionate about what we do, and our race executive understands that there are many hungry people in our community. That’s why we set high goals year after year. We donate to ensure that food reaches where it’s needed most—whether in school breakfast programs or local food banks. The increase in demand is greater than ever,” said Steve Coburn, Compass Run For Food’s race executive.

For more information on the race and registration, visit www.compassrun.com.

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