The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) and its allied partners in the food industry have been selected to support the delivery of the Surplus Food Rescue Program developed by the Government of Canada.
“The project will focus on the distribution of a wide range products including fresh produce, processed potatoes, fish, seafood, meat products, and eggs. The total volume of food to be distributed is estimated at 13 million pounds. The immediate focus will be on the most perishable food products and those that require immediate processing,” says Ron Lemaire, CPMA President.
CPMA is part of a multi-stakeholder network with national and regional representation working to execute this project. This collaboration across industry, charity and indigenous organizations will carry out the distribution of identified surplus food in Canada’s supply chain and match it through CPMA’s partner Second Harvest and FoodRescue.ca to support Canada’s most vulnerable populations, as well as others who, unfortunately, are now in a position to require emergency food donations.
“Historically, our industry has stepped forward when asked to support our community, and this year we have increased our efforts to support those in need, from our frontline workers to indigenous groups” says Davis Yung, CPMA Chair. “I am very pleased that 10 per cent of the product in this program will be targeting northern communities to ensure all Canadians are supported in these unique times.”
