Allan Gardens Food Bank

**You need to register first very important** Call 211 and say you want to register for this food bank. You'll get a number which you must take note of and bring to your first visit. They'll give you a card to bring each week. You are allowed ONE visit per week. ***==========================================It was with feelings of shame and failure that I made my first visit to the Allan Gardens Food Bank. It's right across the street from me, but I didn't know that at the time, and spent over a week figuring out how to access it, and pretending I could cope on my own. I stole food from Loblaws at one point - which was something so utterly foreign to me it was almost fun. But not.Then the next day I was heading down Sherbourne around 2.45 pm, and saw people entering St Lukes Church and I stopped and asked a staff member, is this the food bank. He got me set up, and you know, everyone was friendly and I learned how to access food in Toronto. For the time being, I go every two weeks, as that sees me through.All of the products offered are usable and good quality. Don't expect things like flour or butter or oil; but there is bread on offer, cereal, a lot of lentils and pulses, canned tomatoes, milk and yogurt, and surprisingly meat like sausages, ground beef, chicken and canned tuna. The selection of meats varies. Fresh produce and fruit is on offer as well, pasta and rice. You are offered choices, which makes it more like a shopping" experience.I'm 67 and have never been food insecure before. But thanks to the hateful

Very good place in the winter to visit

I have been volunteering as a substitute driver ....substituting for a very gracious couple who find theselves out of the country from time to time .... I deliver food boxes to frail and often incapacitated individuals in the downtown area. The food bank involves a lot of very helpful and commited volunteers .... and the food recipients are so greatful ... for their food deliveries. I wish more people knew how satisfying it is to serve your community.As a volunteer... you get more personal satisfaction...by serving ...than often the recients do.... Serve your community ...in whatever way that you can... By doing this you also serve yourself !

I would be lost and hungry without them.

Answered my question

A very wonderful and receiptive place