WELLINGTON COUNTY – There is still time for people to support a unique local holiday donation drive billed as a “foodraiser,” because of its goal of providing fresh, healthy food to people in need.
The Fresh Forward Foodraiser, organized by Fresh Box Market and MV Real Estate Brokerage, runs until Dec. 15, when the Fresh Box team will use funds raised to purchase fresh produce that will be distributed the following day to people in need.
“By using Fresh Box Market’s network and connections in the food supply chain industry, with the help of every generous person we know, together we can better the lives of hundreds of families – to make sure no one in our community is without enough food for this holiday season,” stated a news release about the initiative.
People can contribute by making donations to Fresh Box Market to buy fresh food for individuals and families, or by purchasing a box from the business.
During the campaign, 10 per cent of the proceeds from boxes purchased will go toward the Fresh Forward initiative.
“Last year, without knowing what to expect from $7,000 in donations, teams of volunteers gave away bags of carrots, lettuce, apples, asparagus, potatoes, onions, etc., which supported almost 350 families in our area,” states the explanation on the online order form.
On Dec. 16, the MV Real Estate and Fresh Box teams will distribute food “to anyone and everyone, no questions asked,” at locations set up in Guelph and Centre Wellington, the release stated. The giveaway is scheduled to take place at the Shelldale Centre in Guelph from 10:30am to 2:30pm and at Fresh Box Market, 600 Scotland St. in Fergus, from 3 to 6pm.
Extra food will be used by the Shelldale Centre in Guelph and/or brought to the local food bank, organizers stated.
They have a goal of raising $20,000, which has the potential to provide food support for 1,000 families.
To sponsor the “foodraiser,” to make a donation or to buy a box in support of the campaign, visit tinyurl.com/ybcpn496.
