The Parkland Food Bank surpassed its fundraising goal during the annual Coldest Night of the Year event in Spruce Grove, raising $90,231 to help address food insecurity in the region. The February 28, 2026, walk at Columbus Park drew 187 participants and 43 volunteers, marking the most successful event in the organization’s history.
Organizers had set a target of $70,000 for the fundraiser, which is coordinated nationally by the Blue Sea Foundation. With the final tally exceeding that goal by 28 per cent, the Parkland Food Bank secured vital resources to continue its work. The food bank currently provides assistance to 2,400 individuals, including 960 children, across Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Parkland County, distributing over $240,000 worth of food each month.
The top fundraising effort came from Team Awesomeness Century Estates/Gates, led by captain Noreen Lang-Bryant, which brought in $18,059.25. Support for the event also included lead sponsor Armour Galvanizing, along with Capital Power, Knighton & Co., Lamont Land, McLeod Home Building Centre, and 14 other community sponsors.
Founded in 1984, the organization continues to adapt to rising demand in the province. According to recent data, Alberta has the highest food insecurity rate in Canada at 30.9 per cent, with provincial food bank usage increasing by 134.4 per cent since 2019. To meet these growing community needs, the food bank is moving forward with plans for a new $1.2 million facility on a 2.86-acre property.
