Food Banks Mississauga launches its 2026 Holiday Drive, sponsored by Walmart Canada, which aims to raise $3.3 million. The campaign runs until January 8, 2027, and comes at a crucial time as 1 in 10 children in Mississauga relied on Food Banks Mississauga and its citywide network of 60+ food programs last year, as reported in their recently released Annual Impact Report.

Their Annual Impact Report shows that the most vulnerable neighbours are turning to a food bank for support. In addition to the 1 in 10 children in the city using a food bank, 32% of food bank visitors identify as having a disability.

Last year, neighbours visited food programs 513,000 times, the most ever in the organization’s 40-year history. This record number of food bank visits remains 444% higher than just 10 years ago and is now the “new normal”.

“Someone walks into Food Banks Mississauga’s citywide network of over 60 food programs every 22 seconds across the hours that they are open. It’s sobering to think about those who will spend the holidays deciding if they can afford to turn on the heat or buy food for their families,” says Meghan Nicholls, CEO of Food Banks Mississauga. “Holiday Drive donations ensure the shelves of our food programs stay stocked with fresh and shelf-stable food in every corner of Mississauga. Everyone deserves to share a meal with loved ones this holiday season. Please support your neighbours in need and donate to Food Banks Mississauga today.”

“The holidays are a time when no one should have to worry about putting food on the table,” said Erin Mackey, Manager, Community Giving, Walmart Canada. “Food Banks Mississauga is there for our neighbours when they need it most, and we’re proud to support this year’s Holiday Drive and help feed families in our community.”

For every $1 donated, Food Banks Mississauga can provide nearly $5 worth of food through its citywide network of food programs. Thanks to bulk purchasing, food rescue efforts, and support from community partners like Walmart Canada, a $100 gift provides $500 worth of food.