People

These are just a few of the thousands of individuals who face the spectre of hunger every day - right here in our city.

Fred

Fred* lived with bipolar depression and had spent much time living on the streets of Toronto before arriving at the CMHA Safe Beds Program - a program for individuals living with serious mental illnesses who have involvement with the law.

He was in a depressive episode when he first arrived. He was waiting to enter a program for alcohol dependency and was having difficulty getting out of bed to complete even the most basic daily tasks. He'd go to the food bank to get supplies for cooking, since he didn’t have any money, but he didn’t have the energy or stamina to get there very often. Fred was so thankful when he learned he would receive food every Sunday which would include fresh fruit and vegetables from Second Harvest. He eagerly waited to find out what items he would get, and would later talk about what he had made with the food he had received. He appreciated that he was able to get fruits and vegetables from Second Harvest, which he could not get from food banks. This fresh produce, an important part of a balanced diet, was essential in order for Fred's recovery to be possible. With the food from Second Harvest, Fred was able to meet his basic needs and work towards recovery.

* Not his real name

Maureen

Maureen owns her own home but she hasn’t had heat or running water for over 5 years and several contractors have ripped her off over the years.

She volunteers her time in the community, while dealing with an adult child who has emotional problems. Maureen shares her wisdom with new and old neighbours at community events where people come to break their isolation and find company around food.

The Davenport-Perth Community Church has been able to help people access food that they might not be able to access otherwise. Fresh vegetables are in short supply in the area's “at risk” community. Many have to travel outside the neighbourhood for cheaper foods, but transportation is very expensive. Fresh food from Second Harvest helps build a sense of community and belonging.

Randall

Randall is a gifted musician. He is one of those rare talents that can pick up any instrument and master it within a few days. He plays by ear because he cannot read music - Randall is completely blind. He lives on disabilty and loves to drop in at the Salvation Army - 614 Community Ministries Cafe for the good food they provide thanks to Second Harvest. When Randall's around, there's always music in the air.