National event raises money for healthy food programs in Perth and across the country

What if your next virtual get-together was about more than staying connected — what if it could help do good in low-income communities? That’s what will happen during the second annual Big Social, a national fundraising campaign benefitting The Table Community Food Centre and community food organizations across Canada. 

Until October 25th, thousands of people in Perth and across the country will connect, in-person or online, to share food and raise money for healthy food programs and services that support people living on low incomes. 

It’s easy to join. People sign up to host at www.bigsocial.ca. Hosts choose an organization to support, set a fundraising goal, invite guests, and ask them to make a donation. 

“Food is an incredible tool for bringing people together. That’s what our community partners do each and every day.” says Nick Saul, CEO of Community Food Centres Canada. “Food insecurity and isolation are at an all-time high, and The Big Social provides a safe and valuable way to give back during COVID.”

Food insecurity was already an urgent problem before COVID-19, with 1 in 8 Canadians struggling to put food on the table. Since the pandemic, that number has risen to 1 in 7. 

The Table Community Food Centre has seen an increase in demand for food access programs. Ramsey Hart, The Table’s Executive director notes that “Our community meals, which are now offered as take-home meals have gone from an average of 75 a night before the pandemic to 195 a night in September. With an uncertain economic situation over the months ahead, we are concerned that the number of people who need help with food will continue to grow.” 

One of the local Big Social events being planned is a lunch at Perth’s Urban Hearth. Last year the local business hosted a crowd that was delighted by their wood-fired pizza and they raised over $2,000. As is necessary with the pandemic – this year it will be a more low-key affair with just their staff team but the pizza is still going to be amazing. 

To register to host an event or find out more about The Big Social, visit www.bigsocial.ca. 

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