Food for the Capital
An organization created to combat hunger and cultivate change through youth-led efforts to foster a resilient and nourished Ottawa community.
Our Impact
16,433
pounds of food
collected
15,188
1,340
volunteer hours contributed
dollars raised in
monetary donations
About
What began as a spark of compassion during a challenging time has grown into a powerful flame of resilience and community support. Founded in Ottawa during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, our youth initiative blossomed from the collective determination of the bright minds of students at Colonel By High School. Witnessing the distressing surge in demand for food, we united with a shared vision: to alleviate food insecurity and foster a stronger community. As we forged ahead, our impact extended beyond the confines of our school walls, reaching high school students across Ottawa. Through a blend of innovative strategies and unwavering commitment, we continue to pave the way towards a more secure and sustainable food landscape for our beloved city. Join us on our journey as we strive to build a brighter future, one meal at a time. Together, we can create lasting change and ensure that no individual in Ottawa has to face the daunting challenge of food insecurity alone.
March 11, 2020: WHO declares COVID-19 a pandemic.
June 12, 2020: CBC reports a ~30% increase in demand for Ottawa food banks.
August 13, 2020: Food for the Capital (FFTC) is established by a group of high school students.
October 18, 2020: FFTC holds its first fundraising event with 4 donation stations across Ottawa donating over 3,500 lbs of food and $2,500 to Ottawa food banks, and providing volunteer hours to over 10 students.
February 2, 2022: FFTC is awarded a certificate of appreciation from the Kanata Food Cupboard for our outstanding support in the fight against hunger in our community.
May 1, 2022: FFTC has organized 6 major events, donating over 10,000 lbs of food and $6,000 to Ottawa charities, and provided volunteer hours to over 50 students.
September 30, 2023: FFTC is recognized with a certificate of appreciation from the Barrhaven Food Cupboard for our significant contributions to the fight against hunger in the community.
May 15, 2024: FFTC has branched out into several parts of Ottawa and organized 12 major events, donating over 15,000 lbs of food and $13,000 to Ottawa charities, and providing volunteer hours to over 100 students.
August 2, 2024: FFTC is honoured as one of the top 21 young leaders for outstanding contributions in community engagement and entrepreneurial innovation.
Partners
Certificates of Appreciation
Awarded by the Kanata and Barhaven Food Cupboards for our outstanding contribution against food insecurity.
RBC 21 Under 21
Honoured as one of Ottawa's top 21 young leaders for outstanding contributions in community engagement and entrepreneurial innovation.
Mayor Recognition
Endorsed by former mayor Jim Watson for our significant contribution to the Ottawa community in the fight against hunger.
Special Feature
OCT. 2024
Rogers TV | An Hour To Give
Food for the Capital was recently featured in the "An Hour to Give" segment on Rogers TV where Sam Laprade sheds light on Ottawa's most impactful charities and non-profit organizations and their amazing work.
Watch to learn more about our dedication to building a well-nourished Ottawa community and how your contributions help make a tangible difference in people's lives.
News
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Let’s Connect
If you have any inquiries or would like to partner please reach out via email or social media. We hope that you join us in our fight against hunger.