Below are the most common questions we get asked about the drive.

When does the food drive take place?

It happens on the first Saturday of every November. This year's drive takes place on Saturday November 1st, 2025 starting at 10:00 am.

How can I participate?

For those looking to donate food or money to the cause, you can learn more about how it works here. For those looking to get more involved as a volunteer, please fill out the form on the volunteers page and we’ll be happy to find a spot for you.

What items are most needed?

Click here to view a list of the most needed items. While any non-perishable food items are gratefully received, you get extra bonus points for donating items from this list. :)

Where do the donations go?

All food and money collected during the drive gets shared between the 3 organizations behind the operation of the food drive:

• The Hope Centre
• Open Arms Mission
• The Salvation Army

Can I donate before or after the date of the food drive?

Monetary donations can be made in the weeks leading up to the drive. Food contributions are only collected on the Saturday (or in the case of apartment buildings; the following Monday). However, the organizations involved with the food drive are certainly happy to receive any food donations you’d like to make at any time during the rest of the year.

Further to that, the charities have bins near the checkouts in local grocery stores where donations of food or personal items can be made year-round.

Can I donate expired food items?

We kindly ask that you check the best before date on the food items you are donating. If the date is past due within the last 8 months you can donate the item. If it is beyond 8 months expired (dated before March 2025) please do not donate the items. Our food banks are mandated to ensure the freshest and best quality service to those in need.

No one came to pick up the food I left outside my door. What do I do?

While we do our best to visit each and every door in the city, sometimes a few get missed. If this has happened to you please let us know by emailing info@wellandfooddrive.com and someone will help.

I have volunteered to drive and pick up on a route in the past. Can I do that again?

If you have volunteered in the past for a route, you will be contacted by Shirley. Should we require additional volunteers for routes, we will post information on our facebook page.