Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – The Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre (SFBLC) is initiating the “First Bites” campaign throughout February, rallying the community to join forces in the fight against child hunger. Partnering with Canpotex's Food for Kids initiative, this month-long matching campaign aims to double the impact of every donation received up to $50,000, providing vital support, in the form of essential baby food, such as purees and cereals, to children and families facing food insecurity in Saskatoon.
The SFBLC currently serves up to 23,000 people a month through its Emergency Hamper Program and 41% of those it serves are children. SFBLC and Canpotex aim to address this troubling statistic by ensuring that no child in the community goes without essential nourishment. Afterall, the early years of a child’s life are a critical period for growth and development, and proper nutrition is the cornerstone of their well-being.
“The importance of this campaign cannot be overstated,” said Laurie O’Connor, Executive Director of the Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre. “By doubling the impact of donations, we can ensure that more children have access to nutritious meals, setting the foundation for a healthier future.”
Canpotex committed $450,000 to SFBLC over three years through the Canpotex Food for Kids initiative, with a primary focus on providing nutrition for infants and children in Saskatoon. Canpotex recognizes the profound impact that adequate nutrition has on a child’s development and well-being.
“Canpotex supports global food security by exporting potash for increased food production. However, food security is just as much of an issue right here in Saskatoon,” stated Gord McKenzie, President and CEO of Canpotex. “That is why we are proud to partner with the SFBLC on the First Bites campaign. Together we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families experiencing food insecurity, ensuring that no child goes to bed hungry.”
Monetary donations can be made conveniently online at saskatoonfoodbank.org/donate or in person at 202 Avenue C South. The community can also get involved by donating baby food items like purees, cereals and infant formula.
By supporting the First Bites campaign, you can ensure that every child in Saskatoon has a healthier and brighter future.
ABOUT SASKATOON FOOD BANK AND LEARNING CENTRE
The Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre is a community based organization that has a vision of a food secure community where all people have access to safe, affordable, and nutritious food. For more information on the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre please call 306.664.6565 or visit saskatoonfoodbank.org
ABOUT CANPOTEX
Canpotex is one of the world’s largest suppliers of potash overseas. On behalf of its shareholders, Mosaic and Nutrien, Canpotex markets and delivers Saskatchewan potash, a valuable fertilizer nutrient, to customers. Canpotex’s potash helps the world’s farmers grow more food. For more information, visit www.canpotex.com.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Andy Cardinal
Communications & Events Coordinator
Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre
306.664.6565
andy.c@saskatoonfoodbank.ca
Maeghan Dubois
Manager, Communications
Canpotex
306.371.0122
Maeghan.Dubois@canpotex.com
www.canpotex.com