The Salvation Army’s Easter Food Drive returns April 12 at Sobeys and Giant Tiger

As shelves begin to thin from the generosity of the Christmas season, the Salvation Army in Stratford is gearing up for its annual Easter Food Drive – a much-needed effort to replenish the local food bank’s supply ahead of the quieter summer months.

“This is our last big push before summer,” said Jennifer Morris, community services manager for the Salvation Army Stratford and St. Marys Regional Community Ministries. “Once the warmer weather arrives, donations drop off significantly. People go on vacation, schedules shift and food insecurity doesn't stop – but giving often does.”

The Easter Food Drive will take place Saturday, April 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Giant Tiger and Sobeys in Stratford. Community members are invited to drop off non-perishable food and hygiene items. Volunteers from the Stratford Police Service and members of Families In Operation (FIO) will be onsite to assist, creating an energetic, collaborative atmosphere rooted in compassion.

The food drive is not only a seasonal tradition – it’s a lifeline. Everything collected stays local, supporting individuals and families across Stratford and its surrounding rural communities, including Sebringville, Shakespeare and St. Pauls. On average, the food bank serves 100 households every month, and that number continues to grow.

In 2024, the Stratford Salvation Army gave out over 67,000 pounds of food. However, the donations received fell short, which is why the kettle campaign is so important for when the organization needs to dip into their cash reserves to fill the gap.

“We try to keep hampers consistent so people can rely on them,” Morris said. “It helps them budget – if they know we’ll have cereal, snacks, or eggs, they can plan accordingly. And we customize where we can, especially for those with allergies or dietary needs.”

Clients can book an appointment to access a monthly hamper, which includes non-perishables, fresh produce, frozen meats and donated bakery items. The process is discreet, thoughtful and personalized.

This Easter, the top-priority items include:

• oatmeal

• canned fruit

• canned pasta

• crackers

• lunch snacks

Donations of hygiene products such as shampoo, deodorant, body wash and tampons are also in high demand. Morris gently reminds donors to check expiry dates and ensure items are unopened.

The event is more than just a food drive; it’s become a community moment.

A local band will return to Sobeys this year, bringing live music and joy to donors and volunteers alike. What started as a simple gesture has grown into an anticipated part of the event.

“They even take requests!” Morris smiled. “They’ve already asked us when the next drive is.”

This growing tradition is a testament to the spirit of Stratford residents.

“It’s humbling to see people come together from different backgrounds to support a shared goal,” said Morris. “Everyone has a role to play, whether it’s a can of soup, a few hours volunteering, or simply spreading the word.”

Can’t make it on April 12? Donations are accepted year-round at Giant Tiger’s permanent donation bin, or at the Salvation Army office (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Interested in volunteering? Call 519-271-2950 to get involved.

To stay informed about future food drives and other support opportunities, follow The Salvation Army Stratford St. Marys Regional Community Ministries on Facebook or visit www.salarmycfs.ca.

“Go out, get your groceries and do some good,” said Morris.

A small donation may not seem like much, but together, it creates a safety net for those who need it most.