our story
Nearly three decades ago, eight local churches came together with a shared vision: they wanted to find ways to better serve their community. At the time, the City of Toronto identified a pressing need for a food bank in the area. In response, these churches joined forces to make it into a reality.
Over the years, the Churches-on-the-Hill (COTH) food bank has built on its multi-faith approach by evolving over time to include the support of various local synagogues and mosques. Moreover, its reach has expanded to encompass further support from public and private schools as well as businesses. This collaboration across various faiths and sectors reflects the inclusive and compassionate nature of COTH’s mission.
Who we are
The Churches-on-the-Hill (COTH) Food Bank is an initiative run solely by volunteers and that acts as a regional agency for the Daily Bread Food Bank. Founded and sponsored by the Churches-on-the-Hill, COTH’s mission is to supplement the basic food needs of our clients by providing nutritionally balanced food items in a safe and welcoming space.
what we do
We operate a Supplemental Food Program, supplying groceries on a weekly basis to individuals and families who have a place to live but whose income is often insufficient to make ends meet. The program is intended to provide food sufficient for up to twelve days per month. We also offer a Baby program which provides formula, food and diapers from birth to 3 years, as well as specific nutrition for breastfeeding mothers.
The Daily Bread Food Bank provides approximately 40% of the food that our clients receive. Additionally, 55% of the food provided is purchased directly by our Food Bank from wholesalers using the financial donations we receive from our community. The remaining 5% of the food distributed comes from Second Harvest Food Rescue and area food drives sponsored by neighbouring schools, businesses and residents.
closing the food gap
Our clients live in an area stretching from Davenport north to Lawrence and from Oakwood east to Bayview. Unfortunately, COVID, the Ukrainian War and the economic downturn have impacted our neighbours. As a result, our client base has tripled and the amount we spend on food has doubled.
Since we need to purchase half of the food that we distribute, the need for on-going financial support from our community is greater than ever.
Your support can make a real difference for the families we serve.