The annual CTV Your Morning Ottawa Food Drive officially launched on Monday, November 17, 2025, marking a significant community effort to address food insecurity in the nation's capital. The initiative comes at a crucial time when many Ottawa residents face challenges putting food on their tables.
Community Mobilization Against Hunger
Volunteers across Ottawa are rallying behind this important cause, with numerous donation centers established throughout the city. The campaign aims to collect non-perishable food items and financial contributions to support the Ottawa Food Bank's operations during the winter months when demand typically increases.
The food drive represents one of the largest coordinated efforts to stock the shelves of the Ottawa Food Bank, which serves as a critical resource for thousands of individuals and families throughout the region. Organizers emphasize that every contribution, no matter how small, can make a substantial difference in someone's life.
How to Participate and Make an Impact
Residents can participate in multiple ways, including dropping off donations at designated locations, organizing neighborhood food drives, or making monetary contributions online. The Ottawa Food Bank has provided clear guidelines about the most needed items, focusing on nutritious, shelf-stable products that can help create balanced meals for those in need.
Commonly requested items include canned proteins like tuna and beans, whole grain pasta, rice, peanut butter, and canned fruits and vegetables. Baby formula and infant food are also in high demand, reflecting the diverse needs of the community the food bank serves.
Broader Context of Food Insecurity
The timing of this food drive coincides with recent economic data showing inflation cooling to 2.2% in October, with gas and grocery prices showing some decline. However, many households continue to struggle with the cumulative effect of previous price increases and ongoing financial pressures.
The Ottawa Food Drive represents more than just a seasonal charity event—it's a vital component of the social safety net that supports vulnerable community members throughout the year. Last year's campaign collected over 150,000 pounds of food, demonstrating the remarkable generosity of Ottawa residents when presented with opportunities to help their neighbors.
As the holiday season approaches, organizers hope to surpass previous records and ensure that no one in Ottawa goes hungry during the coldest months of the year.
