Food Banks Canada, Second Harvest to distribute up to $20 million in federal funding

Food Banks Canada and Second Harvest are set to receive up to $10 million each through the federal Local Food Infrastructure Fund: Community Support Stream, with the funding intended to help food banks and community organizations provide food to Canadians experiencing food insecurity.

The organizations will distribute the funding through application-based programs to eligible food banks and not-for-profit community groups across the country. The goal is to help organizations purchase and distribute food, improve access in underserved areas, and respond to increasing demand for food assistance.

Responding to rising demand

The funding comes as food banks across Canada report rising demand and growing pressure on resources. Food Banks Canada says the investment will help food banks purchase food, reduce shortages, and improve access to nutritious options for those who rely on their services.

Second Harvest, Canada’s largest food rescue organization, says the funding will support front-line organizations providing nutritious and culturally appropriate food to people in need.

The announcement is tied to Canada’s National Food Security Strategy, launched in June 2026, which aims to strengthen Canada’s food system, improve food affordability and support long-term food security.

Food Banks Canada works with a network of more than 5,500 food banks and community organizations across the country, while Second Harvest rescues surplus food and redirects it to organizations serving people in need.

Eligible organizations can use the federal government’s Community Support Stream Initial Recipient Finder to determine which organization best serves their geographic area and needs.