Markham Helping Hands Food Drive returns to support families in need

The Markham Helping Hands Food Bank Drive, organized by Regional Councillor Alan Ho, is once again mobilizing the community to support residents facing food insecurity. The annual initiative collects food donations for the Markham Food Bank and has become a key source of support during the holiday season.

Partnering with Markham Fire & Emergency Services, along with local businesses, residents’ associations, and non-profit organizations, the drive has raised significant amounts of food over the past three years, helping hundreds of local families in need.

Ho officially launched the 2025 campaign at a press conference on Dec. 11, noting that ongoing economic pressures have led to increased demand for food bank services.

“Demand for food bank services continues to grow, with many families facing unprecedented pressure in meeting their basic needs,” Ho said.

Stephen Lough of the Markham Food Bank emphasized that the organization currently supports about 800 families—more than 3,000 residents—each month, and operates entirely with the help of volunteers.

Residents are encouraged to donate non-perishable, unopened food items at Foodymart (5221 Hwy. 7), Cherish Integrated Services (1271 Denison St., Unit 64), and Sanatan Mandir Cultural Centre (9333 Woodbine Ave.) until January 2026.

Community support has already been strong. Young & Young Trading donated two skids of instant noodles—more than 11,000 packages valued at approximately $8,500. With additional contributions from other organizations, the campaign raised more than $10,000 in food and monetary donations on its first day.

Donations continue to be collected and will be delivered to the Markham Food Bank before January, ensuring support reaches local families during the winter months.