A Simple Lenten Offering That Moves Food from Surplus to Supper
Right now, in a community not far from your church, someone is choosing between groceries and medication.
“Nearly 1 in 4 households in Algoma faces food insecurity,” writes David Thompson, Executive Director of Harvest Algoma. “The pressure is real, and it is growing.”
In 2025 alone, Harvest Algoma rescued more than 547,000 pounds of food that would otherwise have gone to landfill — bread, produce, and staples already present in our region.
“This food already exists in our community,” Thompson explains. “The challenge isn’t finding it, it’s moving it.”
Introducing Daily Bread for Algoma
This Lent, churches are invited to participate in something intentionally simple: a designated Lenten or Easter offering for Harvest Algoma.
“No new governance structure, no special events, and no volunteer requirements,” Thompson writes. “Just a purposeful offering that strengthens the infrastructure behind every food cupboard and meal program your church already supports.”
Every $1 donated helps move 2 pounds of food through the system — into food banks, shelter meals, and school snack programs across the region.
A church of 30 can participate just as meaningfully as a church of 300.
“This is not a pledge campaign or a new program,” Thompson notes. “It is Lent doing what Lent has always done — inviting us into simplicity, generosity, and shared sacrifice on behalf of our neighbours.”
How It Works
1. Church council approves a designated Lenten or Easter offering.
2. Funds are collected using existing parish methods (envelopes, e-transfer, etc.).
3. After Easter, one cheque or e-transfer is sent to Harvest Algoma.
4. Harvest Algoma provides a shared impact summary so congregations can report measurable results.
Algoma-Specific Information Bulletin
Because diocesan receipting procedures apply, churches are asked to review the Algoma-specific information bulletin before remitting funds.
📄 Download the Information Bulletin (PDF)
For more information Contact:
David Thompson, Executive Director, Harvest Algoma by email at: dthompson@harvestalgoma.ca