‘No wait list’ remains goal of Food4Kids Halton’s new executive director

The main goal of the new executive director of Food4Kids Halton is simple – keep providing help to those in need in Oakville, Burlington, Milton and Halton Hills without them ever having to endure a wait list.

Jennifer Sully-Ferraro told INhalton.com that she brings with her more than 15 years in the field and feels like she’s home.

“What excited me about this opportunity was the ability to give back to my community,” said Sully-Ferraro, who’s been on the job about a month. “I’m a resident of Halton myself and I have school-age kids. I recognize how tough it can be for regular families in this post-pandemic world.”

Food4Kids Halton is an organization that aims to supplement the feeding of hungry children on weekends.

“Our main mandate is to fill the gap with school nutrition programs. School food programs do a good job Monday-to-Friday, but often kids go home and end up having nothing to eat all weekend,” she said.

“That’s where we come in. Families are referred to us by schools. We pack 1,100 food bags every week which volunteers deliver to schools. Then teachers discretely slip the foodbags into the backpacks of the kids.”

And even though it’s summer, the program doesn’t end. Rather than food bags, families receive gift cards from local grocery stores they can use.

Sully-Ferraro said the biggest challenge the organization faces is demand for the program. “Ideally we’re not needed. But over the last school year our program has grown from 905 kids last September to 1,150 now.”

The biggest challenge is maintaining the ability to immediately respond to families in need and make sure there’s never a wait list.

When people ask about the best way to help out, Sully-Ferraro said there are plenty of volunteering opportunities at their warehouses in Burlington, Milton and Halton Hills. But nothing beats a simple financial contribution.

“This year, we had $472,000 budgeted for food purchasing, but actually spent $680,000. That was mostly due to increase in demand, not necessarily food inflation.”

She said the organization works hard to stretch their dollars, figuring out menus and working with suppliers. They receive no on-going government funding and rely on one-time grants and private donations.

Terri-Lynn Puckerin, chair of the organization’s Board of Directors, is excited about Sully-Ferraro’s hiring.

“Jennifer’s commitment to social change and her proven track record in non-profit leadership will be invaluable to Food4Kids Halton as we continue our mission to fight child hunger,” she said

“Her innovative approach and ability to unite various stakeholders will enhance our efforts to provide accessible, nutritious food to children across our region.”

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, the organization’s programs, or to make a donation, visit here.