Food to Learn Campaign Surpasses Fundraising Goal for Second Year

Throughout July and August, the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation and Food Banks of Saskatchewan partnered for a second summer of the Food to Learn campaign. Organizers are thrilled to share that the fundraising goal was surpassed for a second year, as Food to Learn helped raise over $72,000 for Saskatchewan’s 36 food banks and the people who rely on them. The campaign sets a fundraising goal of $44,000 over the summer months. This sum represents the approximately 44,000 people who access food banks every month in Saskatchewan. The STF began the fundraising with a $20,000 donation in June. Food to Learn raises funds and calls attention to the growing need for food bank services in the province, especially among youth under 18. After two summers of fundraising, Food to Learn has helped raise over $140,000 for Saskatchewan’s food banks.

The Food to Learn partnership between the STF and Food Banks of Saskatchewan was developed in response to data that shows 40 percent of the people who access Saskatchewan food bank services are under the age of 18. Many of these children rely on nutrition programs through their schools, but do not have access to these programs in July and August. Despite a spike in need, food banks across Saskatchewan generally see a significant slowdown in donations over the summer months. Recognizing how these factors impact students, families and schools across Saskatchewan, Food to Learn aims to raise both funds and awareness for food banks in communities throughout the province.

“The generosity of our communities is a constant source of inspiration,” says Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte. “It is so important that students have access to healthy meals that support their growth and help them focus on learning. The donations brought in over the course of just two months have helped families and students across Saskatchewan, and we are so grateful for the support.”

Along with the public fundraising campaign, the STF office held an internal food drive over the summer, with staff donating over 1,000 pounds of food and a total of 30 volunteer hours to the Saskatoon Food Bank.

“The demand for food bank services is only increasing, so this campaign gives our programs a very welcome boost,” says Executive Director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan Michael Kincade. “The funds raised with the help of Food to Learn are so appreciated, as is the partnership of the STF. This work truly makes a difference for people who need it.”

The need for food bank services has grown significantly in recent years, and the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation and Food Banks of Saskatchewan continue to encourage food bank donations to support the people, communities and children who rely on them.