Home Hardware pledges $20K to help fuel student nutrition program

The Sharing Place Food Centre officially launched its third annual School Fuel Matching Campaign with Orillia’s Home Hardware on Monday morning. The program aims to raise awareness — and critical funding — for student nutrition across 24 schools in Orillia and surrounding areas.

Through the month of April, Home Hardware has pledged to match donations to The Sharing Place up to $20,000, effectively doubling the impact of every dollar contributed.

The campaign comes at a time when food insecurity is at a record high across Simcoe County, with approximately 30 per cent of households experiencing some level of food-related hardship — up from 18 per cent just a few years ago.

“This matching campaign is such a powerful way to get the community involved,” said Kelly Allen, development manager for The Sharing Place. “It’s been a hectic start to April with the storm and everything else, but now we’re rolling. Every donation — whether it was made earlier this month or today — will be matched by Home Hardware. That support goes directly to feeding over 4,000 students every day.”

Launched in October 2020 with just 16 schools and 30 grab-and-go food products, the School Fuel program has grown significantly. It now provides over 70 different healthy food options to all 24 local schools, offering students stigma-free access to breakfasts, snacks, and lunches.

“This program isn’t just about nutrition. It’s about creating stronger communities within our schools,” said Nancy Hannah, kitchen manager for The Sharing Place. “Schools have told us they’re seeing better attitudes, improved behaviour, and a greater sense of belonging. And because it’s open to everyone, it takes away the stigma. Kids don’t feel singled out — they just feel supported.”

Despite financial backing from Student Nutrition Ontario and Eat Well to Excel, which together cover roughly 15 per cent of the program’s costs, The Sharing Place funds more than 50 per cent itself — relying heavily on donations and fundraising efforts like this month’s campaign. The annual operating cost for the program is a staggering $160,000.

“This is why partnerships like the one we have with Home Hardware are so vital,” Allen said. “Without them, the program wouldn’t exist.”

For Orillia Home Hardware co-owners Chris Locke, Kirk McLean, and Bill Ecklund, supporting The Sharing Place is more than just good business — it’s personal.

“Our customers are the community, and many of them have kids in these schools,” said Locke. “When The Sharing Place came to us with this idea, it was an easy yes. We know exactly where the money is going — 100 per cent local — and that really resonates with people.”

McLean echoed that sentiment, noting the pride staff feel during the campaign.

“It’s nice to have a program that perks people up,” he said. “Employees love being involved, customers love seeing it — it just adds a positive energy to the store.”

The campaign also includes a family engagement component. Schools participating in the program have been given activity sheets filled with food education tips, fun facts, and a colouring contest, encouraging students and parents alike to learn more and contribute where they can.

While the short-term goal is to maximize donations before the April 30 deadline, the long-term vision is even more ambitious.

“Ultimately, we want this program to be sustainable year-round — and not just in Orillia,” Hannah said. “It’s already expanded to Barrie and Gravenhurst. Our dream is to see School Fuel reach every student across Simcoe County.”

And with Home Hardware committed for the long haul, that dream may be within reach.

“We don’t see this partnership going away any time soon,” Ecklund said. “Food insecurity is real, and if we can play a small role in easing that burden for families, we’re proud to do it.”

Donations to the School Fuel program can be made directly to The Sharing Place through April 30. Every dollar will be matched by Home Hardware — up to $20,000 — and go toward nourishing the minds and bodies of local students.