Reliable Nutritional Support
Providing weekly supplemental groceries to ensure no neighbour in Uptown Waterloo goes hungry.
Every Thursday
We distribute fresh food bags every Thursday afternoon between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. This consistent schedule is designed to help supplement groceries for individuals and families.
Please note that our program is authorized to serve neighbours living within our specific service area. To confirm if you reside within our jurisdiction, you can view the regional service map here.
How to Participate
First-Time Visitors: Please visit the Centre during our Thursday distribution hours to complete a quick registration process.
Returning Participants: Once you are registered in our system, you only need to identify yourself during subsequent visits to receive your bag.
We look forward to seeing you at the Centre!
A Market-Style Experience
We believe that access to food should always come with the power of choice. Rather than receiving a pre-packed bag, you are invited to select items directly from our tables based on your own household needs, personal preferences, and dietary or faith-based restrictions.
Our selection focuses on providing a balanced variety of high-quality options, including:
Fresh Produce: A rotating selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Proteins: Frozen meat and other protein sources to support hearty meals.
Pantry Staples: A wide array of dry goods and canned items.
By offering a choice-based model, we ensure that you take home the food that is most meaningful and useful to you, honoring your dignity and supporting your health in a way that respects your individual requirements.
Daily Personal Care
We provide the basic supplies needed for daily health and cleanliness. This includes essentials such as toilet paper, bar soap, and toothpaste, as well as hair care items like shampoo and conditioner. These products are available during our regular program hours to help ensure you have the necessary tools for your daily routine.
Hygiene Support
We offer a range of specific hygiene products to support the health and dignity of all our neighbours. This includes menstrual products (pads and tampons) and shaving supplies, as well as specialized items such as adult diapers and protective briefs. If you have a specific size or product need, please speak with a volunteer, and we will do our best to assist you from our current inventory.
Where to Find Us
Our program is located inside the Emmanuel United Church at the corner of Bridgeport Road and Albert Street in Uptown Waterloo. Being centrally located makes it easy to reach us via local transit and connect with other nearby social services in the heart of the city.
Entering the Building: All participants should enter through the main Bridgeport Rd doors to access the Café and food program area. You will find the food selection tables set up at the back of the Bridgeport Café space.
Parking: Free parking is available at the back of the building, accessible via the entrance off Albert St. If you park in the back, please walk around to the front to enter through the Bridgeport Road entrance.