The Food Bank of York Region Acquires New Refrigerated Truck with $150,000 Grant

January 22, 2025

THORNHILL, ON – January 20, 2025

On Monday, MPP Laura Smith met with representatives from the Food Bank of York Region (FBYR) to see the results of a $150,000 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). Awarded in the fall of 2023, the Food Bank has been able to add to purchase a new 2025 Hino L8 refrigerated truck that will add to its fleet of trucks that are fighting food insecurity with every delivery made.

“Congratulations to the Food Bank of York Region on their $150,000 Capital grant,” said Laura Smith, MPP for Thornhill. “I am proud of our government’s continued support for organizations that are making a difference in our communities. The Food Bank of York Region plays a crucial role in addressing food insecurity across York Region.”

The new truck will enhance the Food Bank of York Region’s food distribution services across the region. As the only food distribution hub in the area, the truck will function as a new tool to strengthen FBYR’s efforts to fight against food insecurity in York region. The refrigerated truck will allow the Food Bank of York Region to improve its capacity and efficiency to transport perishable food items, ensuring that fresh produce, dairy, and other temperature-sensitive foods are safely delivered to those in need. This addition to FBYR’s fleet is a critical step in expanding the organization’s ability to serve the growing demand for food assistance in York Region.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for their generous funding, which has enabled us to invest in this essential piece of equipment,” said Alex Bilotta, Executive Director of the Food Bank of York Region. “This new refrigerated truck will allow us to better serve our community by ensuring that vulnerable individuals and families have access to fresh, nutritious food. The support from OTF will directly impact the lives of tens of thousands of individuals throughout York Region.”

The Food Bank of York Region has been a lifeline for individuals and families facing food insecurity. With the region’s rapid population growth, the demand for food assistance has risen significantly. The new truck will provide greater efficiency in operations, enabling the food bank to reach more people in need while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality.

The Food Bank of York Region continues to rely on the generosity of donors, volunteers, and partners to fulfill its mission. The new refrigerated truck is an exciting step forward in helping to ensure that food insecurity is reduced, and that York Region residents have access to the resources they need to thrive. For more information about the Food Bank of York Region, including how to donate or volunteer, please visit www.fbyr.ca.

About the Food Bank of York Region: The Food Bank of York Region is a community-based organization that works to provide emergency food assistance to individuals and families in need throughout York Region. Serving thousands of people each year, the Food Bank is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious food.

About the Ontario Trillium Foundation: The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.

For Media Inquiries:

Nicole Johnson-Mighty, Director of Fundraising and Communication
The Food Bank of York Region
Phone: 289.809.5169
Email: nicole@fbyr.ca
Website: www.fbyr.ca