For the past five years Riverside has donated to CFCC , an organization that is a powerful force in the fight against food insecurity.
“We have been very proud to be able to partner with CFCC because they share our Values as an organization.In their work across Canada to bring good food to people who need it, they deliver help to those who are struggling with respect and in a way that maintains their dignity and builds their self worth.Their hard work doesn’t just fill empty bellies, it feeds the soul because is good quality, nutritious food provided within a caring community with an aim to lift people up.“ Sahba Fotovat, Cofounder of Riverside Natural Foods.
Here is how CFCC describes their work
"How do you take a system that's not working, where people are not thriving, and build something different. We start with good food." Community Food Centers of Canada
Millions of Canadians struggle with poverty and food insecurity.t takes a toll on their physical and mental health, and on the fabric of our communities. CFCC tackles the problem directly by building vibrant centres and programs in low-income communities where food is used as a tool to build health, belonging, and social justice. Food has the power to bring people together, build health and connection, and inspire people to become engaged in issues that matter to them. CFCC prioritizes food that’s delicious, nutritious, and responsibly grown and sourced.
They respect every person’s inherent value and potential to contribute. Program staff in local centres work with people towards the changes they want to make and look for ways for participants to use their assets in volunteer and leadership roles.
CFCC creates opportunities for people affected by poverty and food insecurity to take action on issues and push for progressive policies that can have real, measurable impact on their lives. Grassroots action is combined with a united national voice in speaking out for policies that can reduce poverty, food insecurity, and poor health.
Food insecurity isn't a food problem. It's a money problem. Four million Canadians are food insecure, and it's not because there's not enough food to eat. It's because people can't afford to pay the rent and fill their grocery cart. Wages are too low, jobs too temporary. Social assistance rates keep people in poverty. There is not affordable housing being built to meet rising demands.
These are big issues. And the last thing we can afford is to let them paralyze us. Universal healthcare, paid vacation, suffrage – those privileges exist because previous generations stood up and fought for those rights. At a time of growing inequality, it's more important than ever that we keep fighting for the country we want to see – one where everyone has the means, knowledge, and voice to access good food with dignity.
Riverside is proud to be able to support the work of CFCC, however modestly in the face of such huge need, and hope that we can influence others to do the same. https://cfccanada.ca/en/Home
