Donate Food
Since KLFS is the only non-profit food distribution centre in our region, donations of food and household essentials are greatly needed to ensure that we can continue to meet the needs of those struggling to make ends meet.
Kawartha Lakes Food Source receives no regular funding from any level of government, although it has received one-time grants on occasion.
Where to Donate Food?
Help us fill our shelves:
Barrel Drop-Off
Use the map below to find barrel locations in Lindsay.
*Barrels also rotate into other businesses as they host food-drives and fundraisers on our behalf. Keep your eye on KLFS’ social media for these pop-up collections.
In-Person Perishable Food Drop-Off
164 Needham St, Lindsay ON
Monday - Friday 8:30am-4:30pm
Kawartha Lakes Food Source distribution centre is equipped with fridges and freezers, allowing us to accept perishable donations on site.
Perishable food items must be donated in person.
If you are considering donating perishable items, please ensure that they are brought to the distribution centre rather than being left in donation barrels. When left in donation barrels they too often are squished or are not kept at a safe temperature and therefore cannot be used.
What’s In Need?
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Non-Perishable Food Items
- Canned veggies, fruit, meat, fish, baked beans
- Peanut butter and jam
- Canned or boxed soups and stews
- Pancake mix and syrup
- Boxed mac and cheese
- Condiments
- Dry pasta and pasta sauce
- Rice
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Perishable Food Items
- Milk
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Vegetables (carrots, onions, potatoes)
- Fruit (apples, bananas, oranges)
- Ground beef
- Butter or margarine
- Baking supplies
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Household & Personal Items
- Toilet paper
- Dish soap
- Paper towel
- Kleenex
- Shampoo
- Toothpaste
- Tampons and pads
- Deodorant
Donation
Etiquette & FAQs
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There really is no right answer to this question. We ask that you donate whichever way is most meaningful and accessible for you.
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We rely heavily on our community to donate food at food drives and through other means such as workplace challenges or food received in lieu of gifts on special occasions.
We also obtain food via a process known as reclamation from a company that picks up unsold food from grocery stores. While this food is free, KLFS must pay to have it transported to Lindsay from Toronto.
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Tax receipts can be issued if proof of market value is provided by the donor upon making the donation.
Market value must be a minimum of $20 to qualify for a tax receipt.
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If you are looking for your donation to go exclusively to one of our 10 member food banks your donation will need to be made directly to them.
Please visit our “Find A Food Bank” page under “Need Help?” for full directory of food banks across the Kawartha Lakes, along with their contact information.
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We recognize our donors in our bi-monthly newsletter, “The Source”. Occasionally, we also post about our donors on our social media and website.
If you do not wish to be recognized publicly, please let us know upon making your donation.
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If you’re looking to donate clothing or toys, we would prefer to see these items donated to the many thrift stores in town.
Looking for a more active
opportunity to contribute?
Consider holding your own event! Access templates, sample posters and a step-by-step guide on how to plan and execute a food drive, fundraiser, or other community event.
Check out our Giving Guides for other ways to help KLFS!
Corporate Giving
Our Corporate Giving Guide is an insightful description of the various ways a corporation or organization can meet their business goals by supporting KLFS. The guide explains the process of becoming a retail partner for our social enterprise salsa, becoming a signature event sponsor, organizing a business fundraiser, and payroll giving.
Individual Giving
Our Individual Giving Guide is an in-depth description of the multiple ways an individual can donate in support of KLFS. The guide explains the importance of donating and the opportunities their donations provide to individuals and families in need of food assistance. The ways of donating include payroll giving, giving insurance, estate giving, giving stocks, etc.