cfn updatesWe are excited to share with you our organization's ongoing impact, key stories and media features.
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 Rhubarb’s Heat Bank Dinner and Auction Expanding with FriendsThis year’s Heat Bank Dinner and Auction is entering an exciting new chapter. With a new venue and chefs joining forces from the county’s top restaurants, the event is a true reflection of the friendship between local restaurateurs and the strength of Haliburton County. Coming Together for an Important CauseRhubarb Restaurant in Carnarvon has hosted the Dinner and Auction in support of Heat Bank Haliburton County for 11 years. After last year’s tickets sold out almost instantly, co-owner Terri Mathews-Carl envisioned expanding the event and invited neighbouring restaurants, Bonnie View Inn, the Post House, Dimensions Retreats and Juna to partner for 2025. "This event has always been about a sense of community coming together," says Terri Mathews-Carl, owner of Rhubarb and Juna. "Over the years, we’ve shared incredible meals and moments that translated into real community support. It just felt natural to invite more neighbours to the table to build on that sense of friends helping friends." With the event relocating to Bonnie View Inn, it is expected to nearly double in size, hosting over 100 dinner guests. In scale, it will be a spectacular community gathering - made possible by the camaraderie between these five local establishments. "Neighbours helping neighbours is exactly what is at the heart of Heat Bank. We are always stronger when we work together, and it’s so special to see this same spirit reflected in the fundraiser,” says Tina Jackson, CFN and Heat Bank’s Executive Director. "When Terri reached out, we were so excited to get involved," adds Heather Milstein, owner of the Post House. “Collaborating with fellow restaurants allows us to combine our strengths and creativity to support the community in a meaningful way.” Four Chefs & Four CoursesOn Sunday, November 9th, guests will gather at Bonnie View Inn on Kashagawigamog Lake for an evening of fine dining, live music and community spirit. The night begins at 6 PM with a cocktail hour followed by a four-course dinner. The dinner will be a journey of flavours, with each course crafted by a different chef from Rhubarb, Juna, Dimensions Retreats and the Post House. The evening will conclude with a live auction to support Heat Bank Haliburton County, helping to warm the homes of families in need. As the event’s Exclusive Media Partner, Kabin magazine will be on site capturing the evening’s festivities—adding to the ever-growing circle of friends behind this event. A Critical Fundraiser to Meet a Growing NeedAs of July, Heat Bank Haliburton County has already responded to 223 calls for assistance — nearly matching the total for all of last year before the heating season has started for the upcoming winter. Haliburton County has one of the highest rates of energy poverty in Canada. Rising costs and financial uncertainty mean that more people are reaching out for support. Heat Bank provides practical solutions, including:
One client shared, "Heat Bank has saved me, as well as my animals, from freezing in the middle of January. Without them, I don't know what I would have done." A warm home is not a luxury—it’s essential for physical and mental health. Funds raised at the Heat Bank Dinner will go directly toward providing heating and hydro support for families across the county. Tickets on sale nowJoin us on November 9th to ignite the night and the warmth of our community! Tickets go on sale Monday, October 20th and are $150 each. To reserve your seat, contact Terri at 705-489-4449.
 Volunteers at a Food Services Meeting July 2025. monthly impact by programTo our volunteers, donors, and staff—thank you. Because of you, families in our community have food on their tables, heat in their homes, and the support they need to get through tough times. Food and heat are not luxuries. They are the essentials that allow people to live with dignity and hope. Every time you give, show up, or lend a hand, you make it possible for CFN to be there when our neighbours need us most. As you read this month’s report, we invite you to see the impact you’re creating—and to get involved in whatever way you can. Together, we can keep fueling food, heat, and hope in Haliburton County.  Wilberforce Food BankLocated at the Highlands East Food Hub. In July 2025, our Wilberforce Food Bank made the following impact:
How this compares to July 2024:
*Good Food Boxes in partnership with Haliburton Rotary. Some boxes are purchased by families receiving them, some by donors & others by lottery proceeds.  meals and food distributionOperating out of the Highlands East Food Hub. In April 2025:
*Meal equivalency assumes 13% of food weight inedible & estimates average weight of a meal at 1.3 lbs. **Food Banks receiving deliveries cover a portion of travel for CFN to pick up & drop off food.  cardiff community food bankIn July 2025, our Cardiff Community Food Bank made the following impact:
How this compares to July 2024:
 heat bank haliburton countyIn July 2025, Heat Bank Haliburton County made the following impact:
 CVITP Community INcome Tax ClinicsIn July 2025, our CVITP Community Income Tax Clinics made the following impact:
Delving into Our 2024 Impact - Food ProgramsOur Cardiff and Wilberforce Food Banks are nestled in the heart of Highlands East—an area known for its rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and most of all, its close-knit communities. Here, dedicated teams of volunteers come together to support neighbours facing food insecurity. In 2024, our Cardiff and Wilberforce Food Banks supported 560 individuals through one-time, emergency, and ongoing food assistance—reflecting a 33% increase in attendance over the past two years. Let’s take a closer look at how our food programs showed up for the community last year—and the incredible people who made it all possible.  Meals Prepared with Love, Led by Linda and GailIn 2024, our Highlands East Community Cooks prepared 5,209 frozen meals and 1,004 snacks—each one made with care and compassion. These meals are a lifeline for neighbours who may not be able to cook or who lack access to a kitchen. With a focus on reducing food waste, our cooks use ingredients that might otherwise go unused—turning surplus into nourishment.  Hampers Delivered with Care, Led by Sandy, Cam, & KarenWhen families can’t make it to the food bank, we bring support to their doorsteps. In 2024, our volunteers delivered 170 food hampers across Highlands East. We’re committed to removing barriers—so no one in our community has to face hunger alone.  Stocking Shelves with Our Cargo Van, led by KenThanks to the cargo van fundraised in 2023, we can collect free, bulk food donations from outside Haliburton County. In 2024, our volunteer drivers transported 211,319 lbs of food—valued at approximately $758,000—helping us cut costs and keep our shelves full. We work hard to spend wisely, stretch every donated dollar, and maximize the support we can offer.  Strengthening the Food Banking Network, Led by KenProviding a variety of food options isn’t just thoughtful—it’s essential. It ensures that clients can access foods that meet their health needs, cultural practices, and personal preferences. To help make this possible, we coordinated 56 food deliveries and trades with neighbouring food banks—diversifying what’s available in Highlands East and supporting the broader local food banking network. Because when we work together, we all show up stronger. Together, we met the need.You were part of something powerful — together, we turned under $300,000 into over $1.7 million of impact in Haliburton County throughout 2024. We couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you for standing with us. About Us The Central Food Network operates the Wilberforce and Cardiff Food Banks, Heat Bank Haliburton County, Free Community Income Tax Clinics, and more. We do not receive any ongoing government funding—we’re powered by the generosity of our community.
 Haliburton County Food Banks Launch a Shared WebsiteHALIBURTON (July 28, 2025) - In a collaborative effort to make it easier for residents to find & give food support and information in one convenient place, the food banks serving Haliburton County have launched a new shared website: www.FoodBanksHaliburtonCounty.ca The website is the result of a partnership between Minden Community Food Centre, Central Food Network and Haliburton 4Cs, who came together to create a user-friendly hub for anyone seeking information on local food banks. Visitors can now access details about local food bank locations, service areas and how to get involved or donate - all in one place. “By working together, our organizations hope to reduce confusion and improve the visibility of our services,” said Tina Jackson of Central Food Network. “People shouldn’t have to struggle to figure out where to go when they’re already struggling to put food on the table,” said Louise Ewing, Chair of the Board for 4Cs. Jean Munroe from Minden Community Food Centre agrees. “This website removes barriers and makes it easier for individuals and families to get the help they need more quickly and with dignity.” If you are struggling to buy enough food for your family, our food banks are here to help. The website outlines each of our service areas for public reference; however, these are only recommendations. Please visit the location that is most accessible to you. Across all our organizations, we provide support to community members who need one-time, emergency and long-term food support. We believe that food is a human right and that no one should go hungry. Our doors are open when you need an extra hand; there is no better time than now to reach out. We cannot do our work alone.The shared website outlines three key ways to get involved: donating online, donating food or joining as a volunteer. If you are curious to learn more, we welcome you to reach out and get involved today. According to the HKPR District Health Unit’s ‘2024 Cost of Eating Well Report', close to 13% of households in Haliburton County live on a low income. (HKPR.ON.CA) Our county food banks are on the front lines, helping families access food when they need it most. We rely on the commitment of volunteers, local businesses, and donations from community members to fuel our programs. When you get involved, you join a community of food bankers, helping to build a future where no one in Haliburton County goes hungry. Moving forwardWe will continue to use this website as part of our shared communications to outline where you can find support from each of our organizations and how you can get involved with upcoming fundraisers. As we continue on this journey, we look forward to finding new ways to use this shared space to communicate with community members across Haliburton County. AcknowledgementsThis project was inspired by last year’s shared fundraisers. As we worked together, we began to imagine what a shared space could look like and how we could amplify one another’s voices when we collaborate. This idea could not have become a reality without the Haliburton County Development Corporation, which nourished this project through a 2025/2026 Local Initiatives Program Grant. Thank you to our project team, meeting weekly to build out the website’s content:
We thank the countless volunteers, board members and staff who provided feedback on the shared website throughout the development process. About Our Food BanksAbout 4Cs:
The Haliburton 4Cs is an independent registered charity with a focus on assisting those in our community experiencing food insecurity. We are funded through your donations and money raised through the sale of your donated items at the Haliburton Lily Ann Thrift Store. Every dollar donated goes directly to the purchase of food - all operating costs are paid from the proceeds of the Lily Ann Thrift Store. The store proceeds also allow us to support other food sources in Haliburton County, including Meals on Wheels, SIRCH frozen meal program, and young parents with needs for their children. haliburton4cs.org About Minden Community Food Centre: Minden Community Food Centre (MCFC) is a registered charity dedicated to improving food security in the Minden area. Through emergency food support, outreach, and education, we provide nutritious food with dignity to individuals and families in need. In partnership with Central Food Network and 4Cs, we’re building a stronger, more connected regional response to poverty—rooted in compassion, inclusion, and local impact. mindencommunityfoodcentre.ca About Central Food Network: Central Food Network (CFN) is a registered charity on a mission to assist our community and partners, share food resources, and create opportunities to help those living in poverty. We offer programs to help relieve poverty by providing food, heating supplies and other basic necessities to people in need. centralfoodnetwork.org  Tina Jackson (CFN) with award recipients: Cam, Doris, Ken and Chris CFN Volunteers Receive Ontario Volunteer Service AwardsLast week, four of our incredible CFN volunteers were honoured with Ontario Volunteer Service Awards in recognition of 10 years of dedicated service to our Highlands East food banks. A heartfelt congratulations to: - Cam - Doris - Ken - Chris These volunteers have been with us since the very beginning of CFN. Each one is a true cornerstone of the vital community supports we provide today. Thank you, Cam, Doris, Ken, and Chris—for your time, energy, and unwavering commitment. We are so grateful for all you’ve given. Learn more about the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards here. 7/21/2025 Thank You for Helping Us Meet the Need - CFN Made an Impact of Over $1.7 Million in 2024Read Now 2024 Impact: Thank You for Helping Us Meet the NeedCFN Made an Impact of Over $1.7 Million in 2024 Thank you for standing with us. By volunteering, donating, Jumping in the Lake, indulging in Smile Cookies, bidding during the Heat Bank Auction, sharing posts on social media, hosting fundraisers and MORE - you joined our mission to fuel our community. You were part of something powerful — together, we turned under $300,000 into over $1.7 million of impact in Haliburton County. Food. Heat. Hope. That’s people power. See below for our impact by program or download our 2024 Impact Report. cfn's Overall Impact in 2024Every dollar donated was transformed into $5.88 of impact by providing food, meals, heating and hydro support, firewood, and more to neighbours across Haliburton County.
impact by program in 2024 heat and hydro supportHaliburton County has one of the highest rates of energy poverty in Canada. When folks run out of heating fuel or are disconnected from their hydro, Heat Bank Haliburton County is there to help. In 2024, Heat Bank Haliburton County:
 free tax filingTax filing is a barrier for low-income households to access provincial and federal supports, like the Canada Child Benefit. In 2024, our volunteers and staff hosted free tax clinics across Haliburton County, filing 341 returns—unlocking $881,749 in benefits that clients can use to cover essential needs like food, housing, and childcare.  hunger reductionIn Highlands East, 21% of children live in low-income homes, almost double the provincial rate. Our Wilberforce and Cardiff food banks are on the front lines, helping to nourish families.
 HOLIDAY PRORGAMSPlanning for the holidays is a big undertaking, but it's one of the most meaningful ways we can help families feel dignity, joy, and a sense of belonging. In 2024, we distributed 151 Holiday Hampers through our food banks and 139 kids received gifts through CFN's Holiday Program. These hampers contain everything needed for a big holiday dinner and breakfast the next morning. Join our missionTogether, we’re working toward a future where no one in the Highlands has to choose between heating their home and eating their next meal. The work continues—and we’d be proud to have you with us.  LAST UPDATED - JUNE 22, 2025 cfn ON THE ROAD TO ACCREDITATION: Food Banks Canada’s Standards of ExcellenceCFN was awarded a Standards of Excellence Grant from Food Banks Canada! With the support of the grant, we were able to make the following upgrades:
These are all critical steps on the road to accreditation. Thank you, Food Banks Canada, for the support! Food Banks Canada’s Standards of ExcellenceWhat are the standards of excellence? Below is a high level overview from the Food Banks Canada website. To learn more, visit the link the below. Designed as a baseline set of standards to which the food banking network holds itself accountable, the Standards of Excellence program provides a framework for food banks to identify opportunities for innovation and performance improvements in the areas of:
The standards also reflect the food banking network’s thought leadership and commitment to continually enhance our collective capabilities to relieve hunger today and prevent hunger tomorrow. a team effortWe are so grateful to all our volunteers and staff who are leading the efforts to achieve accreditation! Thank you for all your time, effort and ingenuity.
More information to come!  Jump in the Lake 2025 Makes a Splash, Raising $12,924!We are deeply grateful to the 6 teams and 24 brave plungers who registered with CFN for this year’s Jump in the Lake Challenge! Thank you to each of you—along with the generous donors, enthusiastic social media supporters, and local business sponsors—who made this year’s event a resounding success. Together, we raised an incredible $12,294 in support of CFN’s vital food, heat, hydro, and tax programs. Thank you for making a splash and making a difference! We're excited to share some key highlights from this year's incredible fundraiser below. collaborating across the countyFor the second year in a row, CFN partnered with the Minden Community Food Centre for the Jump in the Lake Challenge. Together we:
It's been amazing to see how this fundraiser continues to grow year after year, with some participants even beginning to make it an annual tradition! A CRITICAL FUNDRAISERIn an interview with Mike Baker from the Highlander, the four Haliburton County food banks shared their experience with increasing food insecurity across Haliburton Highlands. As CFN does not receive any ongoing government funding, CFN's work relies on critical fundraisers like the Jump in the Lake Challenge and year round donations. splashy moments to rememberSo many of our plungers sent in their stories and photos! Below are some highlights.
big winnersThree lucky participants scored amazing prize packs stuffed with goodies from our awesome local businesses! To get their name in the draw, participants raised over $500 for their charity. A huge shoutout to the generous businesses who made these prize packs possible! Your donations added extra excitement and helped supercharge our participants’ fundraising — and for that, the teams at CFN and MCFC couldn’t be more grateful!
thank youNo matter how you engaged in this campaign, thank you! Every dollar is going to help fuel our vital food, heat, hydro and tax programs. join us on our mission to reduce hunger and keep our community warmCFN is fuelled by the generosity of neighbours helping neighbours - neighbours like you! Every dollar donated creates over three dollars of impact across Haliburton County through CFN's food, heat, hydro and tax support programs. Thank you for standing with us!
 Photo of one of our brilliant Food Bank volunteers april 2025. monthly impact by program wilberforce food bankLocated at the Highlands East Food Hub. In April 2025, our Wilberforce Food Bank made the following impact:
How this compares to April 2024:
*Good Food Boxes in partnership with Haliburton Rotary. Some boxes are purchased by families receiving them, some by donors & others by lottery proceeds.  meals and food distributionOperating out of the Highlands East Food Hub. In April 2025:
*Meal equivalency assumes 13% of food weight inedible & estimates average weight of a meal at 1.3 lbs. **Food Banks receiving deliveries cover a portion of travel for CFN to pick up & drop off food.  cardiff community food bankIn April 2025, our Cardiff Community Food Bank made the following impact:
How this compares to April 2024:
 heat bank haliburton countyIn April 2025, Heat Bank Haliburton County made the following impact:
 CVITP Community INcome Tax ClinicsIn April 2025, our CVITP Community Income Tax Clinics made the following impact:
join us on our mission to reduce hunger and keep our community warmCFN is fuelled by the generosity of neighbours helping neighbours - neighbours like you! Every dollar donated creates over three dollars of impact across Haliburton County through CFN's food, heat, hydro and tax support programs. Thank you for standing with us!
 springtime sugar rush! tim hortons smile cookie campaign raises $22,118.03Our local Tim Hortons locations, in Minden and Haliburton, selected the Central Food Network as their charity of choice for the Spring 2025 Smile Cookie Campaign. From April 28th to May 4th 2025, 100% of proceeds made from Smile Cookies sold at these locations went towards the Central Food Network's vital food, heat, hydro and tax programs - including: Thanks to Haliburton County's generosity, we raised an amazing $22,118.03! Overwhelmed with gratitudeTo everyone who bought cookies, shared posts, uploaded photos, created reels, or supported in any way—THANK YOU! This was a major accomplishment that we made TOGETHER! A heartfelt, EXTRA SPECIAL thank you to:
favourite storiesWe were truly overwhelmed by the community support for this campaign and wanted to highlight some of our favourite stories from throughout the week!
PHOTO GALLERYSmiling faces from a sugary sweet week and with friendly faces from all across Haliburton County! |
