Food Bank
Food is the common thread running through most of our work. We help everyone who comes to us without discrimination, based on our capacity to serve.
People most at risk of experiencing food insecurity include the elderly, children, single mothers, people living with disabilities, newcomers to Canada, and Black and Indigenous families.
Salvation Army food banks provide non-perishable and fresh food (when available) to anyone experiencing food shortage. This assistance often starts a conversation around getting more comprehensive support from one our many community programs and services.
How it Works
At The Salvation Army Leamington Community Church and Community and Family Services, we provide a dignified food distribution model, where clients can select the food they need, like shopping at a grocery store. This approach helps restore self-esteem and reduces the stress of asking for food. This program is designed not only to address immediate needs but to offer ongoing support and foster hope for the future.
Eligibility
- Residency Requirement: Clients must reside in Leamington, Ontario or a nearby community
- Demonstrated Need: Assistance is available to individuals and families with low income, those experiencing financial hardship, or those facing a crisis or emergency situation
- Frequency: Local households in need may access our food bank once every 30 days by appointment
Intake
New clients are required to complete an intake appointment with a staff member during their first visit. This process helps the food bank gather basic information to better serve each household. After the intake, a volunteer will accompany the client to the food pantry, where they can select the items they need.
Appointments
Once the initial intake is complete, clients are only required to check in with a staff member once per year for an annual update, or if there are changes to their file—such as an update in income, address, or household size. For all other visits, clients may go directly to the pantry with a volunteer to choose their food.
To schedule an appointment, call (519) 326-0319 or email leamington.foodbank@salvationarmy.ca.
What to Bring
- Clients are asked to bring their own bags or boxes to transport their groceries
During intake, and at least once per year, typically during the Christmas season or in the New Year, clients will be asked to provide the following documents for review:
- Identification (ID) for each household member
- Proof of local residency (e.g. a driver’s license, and/or utility bill, etc.)
- Proof of low income (e.g. an income statement, and/or bank statement, employer letter, pay stubs, etc.)
Blessing Bags
Those experiencing homelessness, are welcome to drop-in once per week to receive food assistance. For the Leamington Motel Shelter Program, call 1-888-933-1831.
Bread and Sweets
Individuals may drop-in and pick-up a few bread products and one sweet treat once per day.
Hours of Operation
Monday: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm and 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
