Port Cares marks 40 years with campaign to collect 40,000 pounds of food

Port Colborne, ON, April 29, 2026 — Port Cares is calling on the community to come together in support of local families with the launch of its “40,000lbs of Food to Celebrate 40 Years” campaign.

Running from May 1 to June 30, the campaign aims to raise the equivalent of 40,000 pounds of food —through both monetary donations and food contributions — in celebration of Port Cares’ 40th anniversary of serving South Niagara.

“We have seen the need grow year after year, and it shows no signs of slowing down,” said Chandra Hardeen, Executive Director of Port Cares. “This campaign is about making sure we can meet our neighbors where they are and help them not just get through today, but build toward tomorrow.”

Port Cares provides a range of programs that support food security from the Reach Out Centre, including a food bank, hot meal program offered three nights a week, senior food delivery, and weekly lunch kits for school-aged children.

As part of their ongoing work, Port Cares is also developing a new greenhouse at the Reach Out Centre, which will allow the organization to grow fresh produce on-site, starting with strawberries and tomatoes, while creating opportunities for skills development within the community.

“Access to fresh, healthy food is critical, and it’s often hard to provide on a regular basis,” added Chandra. “Through our 40^th Anniversary campaign, we’re inviting everyone in South Niagara to be part of this effort by donating food or making a financial gift to help us reach our goal of 40,000 pounds of food for our neighbours.”

Donations can be made online at www.portcares.ca or in person at 92 Charlotte Street in Port Colborne. Food donations can be dropped off at the Reach Out Centre, located at 61 Nickel Street in Port Colborne.

With the support of South Niagara, Port Cares hopes this campaign marks not just 40 years of service, but a continued commitment to being there for our community when it matters most.

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Media Contact‍

Toyin Jegede

T: 905-834-3629 ext 278 | C: 905-321-7596

E: toyin.jegede@portcares.ca

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