Vince’s takes part in the nationwide Toonies for Tummies campaign each year, and each year their customers step up to support the Grocery Foundation’s efforts to feed hungry children.
And 2023 was their best year ever.
Vince’s customers, with the help of a $1,000 donation from Coca-Cola Bottling, raised a total of $7,600 to help provide meals for local children who otherwise are at risk of going to school on an empty stomach, according to a news release.
The independent grocer has raised more than $31,000 for Toonies for Tummies over the past eight years, and is one of nearly 1,400 grocery retailers across the country to participate in this initiative that helps fund more than 3,000 programs and has set a goal of $4 million for 2023 to help provide an estimated two million meals.
“I would like to thank all Vince’s customers for supporting and donating to the Toonies for Tummies campaign, this year and every year since we started participating in this annual charitable event,” said Vince’s community support ambassador Maria Ciarlandini.
As with past campaigns, 100 per cent of all shopper donations made at participating stores and online will benefit the foundation’s student nutrition partners: Breakfast Club of Canada in Western and Atlantic Canada, and Student Nutrition Ontario. This will support a growing number of students who attend programs that are inclusive and judgment-free, providing children with access to healthy foods, knowledge about nutrition, and a proper start to the day with whole grains, protein, dairy, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Many programs also provide a means for students to connect with and support one another, and benefit from the nurturing and support of Vince’s Market Tottenham teachers and volunteers.
“The Grocery Foundation’s mission is to ensure there are no hungry children at school,” said executive director Shaun McKenna. “Our #Toonies4Tummies campaign is a vital piece of the funding puzzle for many schools. One hundred per cent of every toonie donated at stores such as Vince’s make an incredible impact in the local community. We’re indebted to independent grocers such as Vince’s, their store team’s leadership, and generous shoppers who are supporting countless children who are well nourished and eager to learn.”
“We are pleased to be a part of this life-changing initiative – one that is helping children improve their nutrition, attention, and ultimately, their academic achievement,” added Vince’s president Giancarlo Trimarchi. “Much thanks to the Grocery Foundation for keeping this program going throughout the pandemic and continuing to fill so many hungry tummies.”
