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In Saint-Hubert, Quebec, Provisions Communautaires reaches over 7,000 people each week, guided by the principle: “Spread love, multiply joy.”
“For us, it is a great point of pride to refuse no one and to cater to everyone with love,” said Emmanuel Dallaire, director of operations at Provisions Communautaires.
Like many community organizations, maintaining stability through the ups and downs of giving cycles is a constant challenge. Since joining Second Harvest’s network in 2022, Provisions Communautaires has received over 2.2 million lbs of rescued food, collecting donations three or four times a week through the Second Harvest Food Rescue App.
From carrots and strawberries to dairy, bread, meat and even hygiene products, Provisions Communautaires provides 1,500 prepared baskets each week.
But the impact goes “beyond giving food and being a food bank,” said Emmanuel.
“I think it’s the happiness we bring to people,” said Mamadou Barry, operations supervisor at Provisions Communautaires. “Our volunteers are all loves ... Without the volunteers, we could never make the baskets like we do.”
Their volunteer team includes retirees, people with disabilities and those simply looking to give back.
“They come here through love, for love of their neighbour ... They come and say, ‘I never expected to be received like that,’” Mamadou shared. “The best part is watching those interactions — between volunteers, and between volunteers and clients. Everything that comes out of that, it’s magical.”
This year, Provisions Communautaires once again brought families together for its fall celebration: marking the start of the school year and providing 1,000 new backpacks and school supplies so children can return to class with confidence and dignity.
“It’s truly a privilege to give back to the community with an organization like Second Harvest,” Emmanuel added. “We have the same heart.”
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