The Brantford Food Bank is once again preparing to spread holiday cheer through its annual Christmas Baskets Program, which opens for registration on Monday, November 3, and runs until November 14.
The long-running community initiative provides food, toys, and gift cards to families and individuals facing financial hardship during the holidays.
Organizers say demand continues to grow each year — and they’re ready to meet it.
Last December, more than 1,200 families from Brantford, Brant County, and Six Nations received assistance through the program.
This year, the Food Bank has expanded capacity, opening registration for over 1,600 households.
“As poverty levels deepen and more people are becoming food insecure, we see it as essential to increase our registration numbers this year,” said Heather Vanner, Executive Director of the Brantford Food Bank.
“We want to ensure that we can support as many families as possible this holiday season.”
Vanner added that community support remains crucial to the program’s success.
“I encourage anyone who can to get involved — whether that’s volunteering your time, hosting a food drive, or making a monetary donation. Every little bit helps.”
The Christmas Baskets Program, operated by Community Resource Service (CRS), has been a cornerstone of local holiday giving for decades.
Beyond the seasonal support, it represents a broader commitment to CRS’s mission: ensuring that “Everyone is Fed, Everyone is Working, and Everyone Counts.”
Residents can learn more, register, or contribute by visiting www.crs-help.ca or by contacting the Brantford Food Bank directly at 519-751-4357 ext. 228.
