Food
Kitchener and Waterloo Christmas Food Support – No Registration Required
This holiday season, there is no central Christmas food delivery or hamper program in Kitchener and Waterloo, so you do not need to register for Christmas food support.
If you need food support, visit your local Emergency Food Program throughout December.
Please note:
- We are working hard to offer many types of food – exact items will vary by day and location throughout December.
- To help more people, we can no longer offer gift cards and meat options will vary.
- Programs are very busy in December. We are happy to help and ask for your patience and understanding. Please plan for longer wait times.
For food support this December, connect to your local year-round Emergency Food Program by visiting: www.thefoodbank.ca/find-food/
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get emergency food assistance in December?
- Continue visiting your local food assistance program if you already use one.
- Visit https://thefoodbank.ca/findfood which includes a map with program boundaries
- If you can’t find a neighbourhood program, anyone who lives in Kitchener and Waterloo can visit House of Friendship’s Emergency Food Hamper Program at 807 Guelph St, Kitchener, open Monday–Friday, 9:30 am – 4 pm (closed on holidays).
- In December, please be prepared for busy programs and longer wait times.
What if I already use a weekly neighbourhood food program?
- Most neighbourhood programs are open in December. You can ask programs for their December schedule.
- If possible, please use your neighbourhood program in December to get food support.
What should I bring when visiting a food program?
- Bringing ID for each household member is very helpful but not required.
- If possible, please bring reusable bags to carry your food.
What if I cannot go to a program in person?
- Ask a friend for support to pick up food
- Contact The Foodbank of Waterloo Region to ask about options for delivery and evening pick up at needfood@thefoodbank.ca or 519.743.5576 extension 340
How can I find food assistance outside of December?
- You can get food assistance all year – you don’t have to wait for December or Christmas to get support
- To find food near you at any time of year:
- Visit https://thefoodbank.ca/findfood which includes a map with program boundaries
Thank you for your understanding and patience as programs work to support everyone who needs food this December.
Toys
Christmas Toy Hamper Program – The Salvation Army Kitchener Community Church & Family Care Centre
The Salvation Army Kitchener Community Church & Family Care Centre is committed to walking alongside parents and primary guardians to help ensure their children experience the joy of receiving a gift this Christmas. If you are facing financial hardship and are unable to purchase gifts for your children aged 15 and under, we are here to support you.
Please note: Due to the high volume of requests, gifts are provided only to the custodial parent.
Eligibility & Requirements
- Our priority is to support families in Kitchener and Waterloo with children aged 0–15 who are experiencing financial need and fall within the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO)
Applicants must upload income verification documents (e.g., most recent Notice of Assessment, pay stubs, Child Tax Benefit, ODSP, OW, etc.) and identification for all household members. Accepted file formats: PDF, JPEG, or PNG
Toys/gifts are provided for children aged 0–15
*please note that all uploaded documents will be deleted once they have been reviewed.
Application Process
- The online application will open in November and remain available until all appointments are booked. Community & Family Services | The Salvation Army
- Applications will be reviewed by our team, and additional information may be requested.
Toy pick-up appointments will be scheduled during the application process. Please ensure you complete this step. Appointments begin in December.
You must present your appointment confirmation email and valid ID at the time of pick-up.
Important Note
Applying for toys through multiple organizations may result in your registration being cancelled.
Need Help Applying for Toys?
If you are unable to use the online application form, please contact us starting November 3:
- Phone: 519-745-3351 Monday – Friday | 9:00–11:45 AM & 1:00–3:45 PM