In November 2022, Alberta’s government announced $20 million over two years to support food banks and related food security organizations across the province. To date, $10 million of that funding has been distributed to 210 organizations that help put food on the tables of Albertans.
“After hearing from those representing food banks in Alberta, we knew our government needed to act. These grants are ensuring that food banks and other organizations big and small can carry out the incredible work they do. Our government is proud to be partnered with so many individuals dedicated to supporting those in need.”
Of the funding provided, more than $3.4 million has been used to match donations made to food security organizations, up to a maximum of $50,000.
All 113 organizations that applied for the Donation Matching Grant were provided with funding.
“As we continue to see unprecedented demand for emergency food support, Albertans across the province are benefiting from the Government of Alberta’s investments into food security. It takes government, communities, organizations and individuals all coming together to fight hunger and its root causes."
“For newcomers and multicultural families, it is important that they can access culturally appropriate food they are familiar with. We are proud to have the government’s support in helping feed those who are struggling in our community.”
In November 2022, the government announced three grant streams to support Albertans struggling to put food on their tables.
- Food Bank Grant ($2.8 million):
- 109 established food banks were provided funding in December 2022.
- The Calgary Food Bank and Edmonton’s Food Bank each received $280,000 through this grant.
- Food Security Grant ($2.9 million):
- 76 organizations were provided funding of up to $50,000 through an open grant call in January.
- Donation Matching Grant ($3.4 million):
- 113 organizations will be provided donation matching funds up to $50,000.
“With an unprecedented number of families needing support, we are so grateful for the assistance we received from the Government of Alberta. The awareness the support has garnered continues to keep the struggles that our families are facing top of mind.”
In addition to the three grant streams, the government is providing $510,000 to Food Banks Alberta to strengthen the food bank network in the province. This funding will be used to provide training to food bank staff, develop an improved data system and enable bulk food purchases.
“Food Banks Alberta and organizations across the province are grateful for the support from Alberta’s government. We are encouraged by their actions to address food insecurity and the issues Albertans are facing today.”
“No child should ever be left wondering whether or not they will be fed each day. The timely support from Alberta’s government shows that they are listening to the needs of the non-profit community to improve food security.”
Alberta’s government is delivering immediate cost-of-living and inflation relief while working to support long-term affordability through the Affordability Action Plan.