Calgary Food Bank Annual Report

I joined the Calgary Food Bank during a time of growth and challenge, but this has also been a time of collaboration and meaningful steps forward. In 2022–2023, there were over 144,000 client visits to the Calgary Food Bank—an astounding 27% increase in visits compared to the last year.

Year after year, Calgary Food Bank has seen record-breaking numbers of new clients and community agencies seeking support, with inflation, cost of living, job loss, and forced relocation as top drivers. We see working parents unable to make ends meet, skipping meals so their children can eat. We see seniors and people on disability pensions and other fixed incomes needing additional support.

Despite this heaviness, we continue to be inspired by the kindness and generosity that surrounds us. Public food donations remain consistent, and our community remains loyal and supportive of our mission. Our dedicated response to the needs of Calgarians is thanks to our donors, staff, volunteers, and partner organizations.

Thank you for giving your gifts of food, time, and money to feed your fellow Calgarians.

BOARD CHAIR

AMY LEONG

It is exciting to see how the Calgary Food Bank continues to evolve. In a short amount of time, Melissa From, the Calgary Food Bank’s new President and CEO has made great strides in working with her team, progressing strategic goals and addressing immediate key priorities such as reducing wait times for clients. She has engaged with dozens of community partners, stakeholders and donors to continue to share our mission and vision while ensuring stability throughout the organization. Melissa’s broad experience and strength in building relationships have been a great asset to successfully navigate through the many complex conditions we face.

Despite what happens in the world around us, the Calgary Food Bank stays committed to meeting the demand for food support in our city. Though restrictions were lifted following Covid-19, new events such as the war in Ukraine will persist. In response to the need of families and individuals who have called our community home and new neighbors including Ukrainian people fleeing war-torn countries, Calgary needs us more than ever.

While the Calgary Food Bank experiences unprecedented demand on staff, resources and processes, it is through energetic leadership and ongoing sustainability that we will ensure our future success and growth. As Board Chair and on behalf of the Board of Directors, I can confidently say we will meet each challenge with strength and resolute optimism.

By Community, For Community

HELP BEYOND FOOD

How one volunteer provides comfort and support to each client he talks with

HELP FEED THE NEED

How one industry partner shares food

BUILDING COMMUNITY

One corporation’s community giving program invests funds and people’s time

A TIME TO HARVEST

How the Grow-a-Row program powered by volunteers provides fresh locally grown veggies

COMMUNITY IN ACTION

Fighting hunger and its root causes in collaboration with others

DOUG AND PAUL

How two inspiring Calgarians put fitness philanthropy in action

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“I have four children. Food costs have gone up so much. As well as every other cost. I try not to use the food bank often. But sometimes every once in a few months I have to. And it really helps me tide things over.”

Calgary Food Bank Client

Watch A Slice Of Life At The Calgary Food Bank

Fiscal year September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2023

Financial Snapshot

Audited Financials 2023

Funds Donated

$20.6 million

Personal (52%) 52% 52%
Corporations (21%) 21% 21%
Foundations & Grants (21%) 21% 21%
Communities (6%) 6% 6%
Government (0.4%) 0.4% 0.4%

VALUE OF FOOD Donated

$52.1 Million

Gleaning (75%) 75% 75%
Community Donation Bins (9%) 9% 9%
Food Drives (9%) 9% 9%
Farms (5%) 5% 5%
Other (2%) 2% 2%

PROGRAM INVESTMENT

$54.9 Million

Emergency Food Hampers $45.7M (83%) 83% 83%
Food Link $3.8M (7%) 7% 7%
Food Share $1.65 M (3%) 3% 3%
Mobile Hampers $1.54 M (3%) 3% 3%
Purchasing Power $1.55 M (3%) 3% 3%
Weekends and More $483,000 (1%) 1% 1%
Welcome Home $131,000 (.22%) .22% .22%

Charity Intelligence Profile

Charity Intelligence is a Canadian registered charity, founded to help donors identify which charities most closely align to each donor’s giving priorities. We have an A+ and 5-star rating and were included in the Top 100 Charities of 2023. Visit our profile page on their website for more information. The charities that Charity Intelligence rates are based on donor accountability, financial transparency, funding needs and cost-efficiency. Please visit our Charity Intelligence page to see the information we are graded on.