Commentary

Monthly Message: Incredible things happen when we work together

April 2, 2026   ·   0 Comments

If there’s one thing we know for certain at the Orangeville Food Bank and Dufferin Food Share Grand Valley, it’s this: when a community comes together with kindness and intention, incredible things happen.

April is one of my most favourite months to talk about something that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves-monthly giving.

It might not feel as exciting as a big event or a packed food drive, but behind the scenes, monthly donors are the quiet, steady heartbeat of everything we do. They are the reason we can plan ahead, respond quickly, and ensure our shelves are stocked not just today, but tomorrow, next month, and into the future.

Food insecurity doesn’t come and go- it’s something many families are navigating every single day. And that’s why long-term, sustainable funding matters so much. Monthly giving allows us to purchase fresh, nutritious food, invest in programs that support dignity and choice, and adapt as the needs in our community continue to grow.

It gives us stability in a space that is often anything but predictable. If you are able to, please donate here: https://www.orangevillefoodbank.org/donate

This year, we’ve also made an important shift behind the scenes by moving to a new donor platform. It’s one of those changes that may not be visible at first glance, but it has a meaningful impact. This new system allows us to keep more of every dollar donated, ensuring that your generosity stretches even further for the families we serve.

If you are currently a monthly supported and haven’t yet made the switch, I would love to help you with that. You can reach me, Carrie-Anne DeCaprio, at 226-558-2109. It’s a quick and easy process-and it makes a real difference.

Of course, April is always so full of ways for our community to come together, have a little fun, and give back at the same time.

From April 1–30, our friends at the Orangeville Citizen are hosting a month-long food drive at their First Street office. It’s a simple but powerful way to support your neighbours-and we are so grateful for their continued partnership and belief in the work we do. More information here: https://citizen.on.ca/

On April 10 and 11, Yoga-riffic will be hosting a clothing drive with heart. Half of the proceeds from the sale will go directly to support the food bank, turning gently loved items into meaningful impact for local families. More information here: https://www.yoga-riffic.com/

We’re also excited to celebrate a big milestone with Boston Pizza here in Orangeville as they mark their 20th anniversary. On their celebration day, April 18^th, 10% of all food sales will be donated to the food bank. It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a meal out while giving back-and we’re so thankful to be part of such a special occasion.

And for those with a sweet tooth, the “For the Love of Butter Tarts” Festival on April 25 is not to be missed. Bring along a non-perishable food donation and receive $1 off your admission. It’s a small gesture that adds up in a big way-and a fun reminder that giving can be woven into even the most delicious of days. More information here: https://www.facebook.com/Welovebuttertarts/

As we move through the month, we’ll also be wrapping up the Loblaws “Feed More Families” campaign on April 5. Campaigns like this are such a beautiful example of how businesses and communities can work together to create real, lasting impact.

And while we’re talking about what’s ahead, I want to plant a little seed for June, because something very fun (and slightly competitive!) is coming back to our local schools.

Cereal Dominoes.

If you’ve never seen it before, picture rows and rows of cereal boxes lined up in school hallways, all working together to create one incredible domino chain reaction. It’s a powerful visual of how small contributions come together to create something much bigger, and every box is then donated to support families in our community.

If your school would like to be part of this year’s Cereal Dominoes initiative, I would absolutely love to connect with you. You can reach me at carrie-anne.decaprio@orangevillefoodbank.org or by phone at 226-558-2109.

At the end of the day, everything we do comes back to people.

To the families who walk through our doors.
To the volunteers who give their time so generously.
To the donors, whether one-time or monthly, who choose to stand beside us.

Monthly giving may not always be the loudest part of our work, but it is one of the most powerful. It’s what allows us to keep showing up, day after day, with consistency, compassion, and care and helps us to create a well nourished community.

And for that, we are endlessly grateful.

Readers Comments (0)