The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope is grateful for the tremendous support through innovative partnerships and donors who supported this year’s food drive to provide hope to vulnerable families.

As the cost-of-living increases, Jason Linton, executive director, The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope, says the need for the organization’s services will grow as the number of families requiring food assistance in Windsor continues to rise.

“We’re anticipating serving more families this year than last—a trend we’re seeing not just here in Windsor, but across the province,” said Jason Linton, executive director, The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope. “Nearly 30% of those we serve are children and teens aged 18 and younger, and on average, we assist more than 600 families per month. Families who have never needed help before are now turning to our services, making it more crucial than ever to be ready to provide critical supports.”

The city-wide food drive on October 12 was in partnership with Windsor Police, LaSalle Police, Tailgate Takeout, Windsor Loblaws, Metro, and No Frills, bringing awareness to the important issue of homelessness in the community and support those in need. By holding this food drive, The Salvation Army’s goal was to replenish their food bank and to be prepared to meet a growing demand for those using their food program services.

This is the second year The Salvation Army has put on this food drive, with last year collecting over 2,000 lbs of food and over $3,000 in monetary donations to support its food bank. This year they shattered that record by collecting 4500 lbs. of food and $8000, thanks to the support of crucial community partners and donors.

The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope’s food bank has seen a decrease in donations, which is a stark reality what most charities are now struggling with.

“When we see less food on our shelves day-to-day, that’s a bleak reminder of the reality so many people are facing. It’s important for our community to know that The Salvation Army is here for them through transformative programming, and that no one should hesitate to reach out when they need it help,” says Linton.

The Salvation Army encourages everyone to assist all food banks in the greater Windsor region not only around the holidays, but throughout the year.