The Right to Food Day Block Party isn’t just a celebration; it’s a call to action.  As poverty climbs – 11% of people in Ottawa Centre (approximately 13,500 people) live in poverty according to Community Food Centres Canada – food insecurity is reaching unprecedented levels. 53% of Neighbours using Parkdale’s Food Centre’s support are skipping meals because they can’t afford to buy more. Parkdale Food Centre is seeing this first hand, “Use of our supports is the highest it has been in our 40 year history,” says Beth Ciavaglia, Executive Director of Parkdale Food Centre. “But we’re stepping up with holistic action. From our Community Kitchen and Mino’Weesini Grocery Program to the Community Advocacy and Growing Futures Youth Programs, we are increasing our Neighbours’ access to good food today while tackling this complex issue long-term.”

Event Details:

• When: Saturday, October 5, 2024 (12pm – 4pm)
• Where: Hamilton Ave. N between Spencer St. and Armstrong St. and Parkdale Park

Event Highlights:

• A vibrant dining experience: Like Parkdale Food Centre’s Community Kitchen, Neighbours are invited to share good food and connect with each other. Food will be served free of charge thanks to the generous support of event sponsors, but donations will be asked of those with the means to give.

• Family-friendly entertainment: Live musical performance by Juno nominated, Canadian folk singer, Craig Cardiff, and interactive activities will show Neighbours how we can realize the right to food for all.

• See inside Parkdale Food Centre’s programs: Tours of Parkdale Food Centre’s Mino’Weesini Grocery Program will give Neighbours an inside look at their innovative approach to making food accessible.