Feed Scarborough

EAST TO Community

Feed Scarborough

What started as a holiday charity handing out holiday hampers quickly pivoted during the pandemic to start delivering groceries to thousands of families dependent on shut-down food banks.

Today, Feed Scarborough operates its mobile healthy meal program three days a week, plus has added four food banks and a free grocery store for families in need.

We spoke with Matt Olinski, Feed Scarborough volunteer and agent at The Richards Group, about how promoting choice feeds dignity among families living in poverty.

What have you learned through volunteering for Feed Scarborough?

It’s surprising to see how much need there is out there, but it’s also good to see how much the community gives back.

I didn’t realize how huge the network of people offering help actually is. From businesses to individuals, there’s a lot of time and effort that goes into supporting each other. It’s great to live in a community where people are willing to work together to support their neighbours.

What brought you to Feed Scarborough?

It was very fulfilling to help out in my own community and support an organization that thinks beyond a traditional food bank. The bulk of what we distribute is fresh vegetables, fruit, and dairy products — because with the cost of groceries rising so much, putting fresh, high-quality food on the table is beyond the reality for many.

Feed Scarborough also recently launched a free community grocery store where guests can shop for items that account for their cultural tastes, allergies, and likes and dislikes.

What would you tell someone looking for volunteer opportunities in their community?

It can be as simple as a Google search. It’s not difficult to find if you want to help, and you don’t have to look far from home. Local food banks are a great place to start.

I get as much out of volunteering as whoever I’m volunteering for. You meet so many wonderful people and receive so much gratitude for lending a hand. I have to say I get a lot of fulfillment from that.

Find out more: scarboroughfoodsecurityinitiative.com @feedscarborough on Instagram