We Fight Hunger With Hot Meals and Community Ties

Food for Thought works on reducing food insecurity in Ottawa, by providing meals to people in need. We focus on those who cannot cook because of age, disability, or circumstances.

'Food insecurity’ is a term used to describe cases where people have trouble accessing food. When someone is 'food insecure,' they may be unable to afford enough groceries for the week, and they often don't get proper nutrition.

Food insecurity can lead to physical and mental health problems. Children in particular face challenges, as it is linked to poor performance in school.

What many don't realize is that food insecurity is complicated. It isn't always about the difference between a high or low grocery budget.

In Ottawa, hundreds of families are placed in hotel rooms to curb homelessness. These rooms usually only have a small microwave and bar fridge, no surface for preparation and a bathroom sink too small to fit even a plate in.

Imagine living without being able to cook a proper meal for months on end. How would you eat three meals a day on a low budget with no kitchen? How would you feed a family of four?

There are so many more reasons why someone might have trouble accessing hot, nutritious meals. Many of our neighbours live in shared homes and shelters, and it is difficult to access their kitchen – if they have one at all. Plus, many have disabilities or conditions that prevent them from being able to cook.

Food insecurity affects 1 in 15 households in Ottawa. That's why we created Food For Thought.

Food banks, community cupboards and food drives put ingredients in the hands of low-income neighbours. These are wonderful initiatives, but they only solve part of the problem. Many Ottawans don't have access to a kitchen, or the physical capabilities to cook their own food. That's where Food For Thought comes in.

We created Food For Thought in 2019 as a direct solution to food insecurity. We rent out professional kitchens to cook a large supply of hot, tasty meals. These meals are donated, through community centres, to people who have trouble accessing food or the means to cook.

We started as a team of chefs, food-lovers, and community leaders who wanted to help. Food For Thought was originally an internet cafe in a low income neighborhood, where people could eat with their neighbours and form a strong bond with their community. Specifically, our location created a great atmosphere for youth in the evening.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit Ottawa, we had to close our cafe, but we still wanted to help. We called on volunteers, donors, partners, and sponsors to help us cook and deliver food to low-income families. Thanks to you, we've served over 200,000 meals to people in need in one year – all since the pandemic started.

Learn More About The Community Members We Help

Donna

When cooking and shopping are tough, it's even harder to maintain proper nutrition.

Cassie & Anna

Cassie cares for Anna, her young daughter, and for her disabled mother. For months, they've lived in a hotel room without a kitchen, and eating well has been a challenge.

Max

Rooming houses have shared kitchens, but many of them have closed since COVID-19 began.

You Can Help People Like Donna, Cassie, Anna, and Max – Every Donation Counts

Donate*

*You will be directed the CanadaHelps secure site for donations.

There's a seat for you at the table. Find out how you can help.

We believe that food is about more than filling your belly. Food has the power to nourish your soul and bring people together – that's why most people enjoy mealtime with others.

Food For Thought is about more than food – we're all about community. That's why we're proud to accept volunteers looking for a way to help others directly.