Food For Life is now providing fresh food to more than 4,500 families every week across its network in Halton and Hamilton, and has updated its recruitment portal to make it easier for residents to help. As part of a late February 2026 update to its volunteer registration process, the organization is highlighting its low-barrier entry requirements, including its policy of not requiring a police background check for volunteer roles to encourage more people to sign up quickly.
The demand for fresh food in the community has increased significantly, with the charity supporting more than 5,000 households weekly across its network by the end of 2025. To help meet this need, the Halton Regional Council has committed to providing $1 million in annual funding for food security organizations starting in 2026.
Community members can help at the Mountainside Market and main hub located at 2258 Mountainside Drive in Burlington. Available roles include sorting rescued produce as a Fresh Food Packer, helping shoppers as a Market Volunteer, or riding along as a Driver Assistant to help move food in refrigerated trucks.
To get started, new volunteers must complete a two-step orientation that includes a one-hour virtual information session followed by an in-person training meeting. The organization offers flexible options including one-off shifts or regular weekly commitments to help process the fresh produce, meat, and dairy they rescue for local families.
