Donate Food to Support Downtown Winnipeg

Rising living costs and limited access to healthy options leave many families turning to food banks, community kitchens, and emergency services to get through the week.
We are creating systems that empower people, foster local food networks, and ensure that no one has to choose between paying for rent or buying food.
Creating a community food system in Winnipeg that’s rooted in dignity.
Donate Food to Support Equity in Winnipeg
Help create equity in Winnipeg by donating nutritious, high-need foods or financially support our food programs.
Shelf-Stable Donations
- Canned goods (vegetables, fruit, soup, fish, meat, sauce)
- Peanut butter or other nut/seed butters
- Pasta, rice, lentils, instant noodles
- Cereal, oatmeal, granola bars, crackers
- Shelf-stable milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Tea, coffee, hot chocolate
- Cooking oil, flour, sugar, baking basics
Fresh & Perishable Donations
- Fresh fruit and vegetables
- Bread, buns, tortillas
- Eggs, dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese)
Food Security at Thrive: Iris’s Story
Iris, 64, raised her children as a single mom and worked as a fashion designer. Now a senior living with osteoporosis, carpal tunnel, and COPD, she survives on EIA disability after not qualifying for Canada Pension Disability. “That really leaves me short for things like food” she explains. “Thrive helps fill the gaps”.
For almost six years, Iris has turned to Thrive for food hampers, hot lunches, and coffee. “I can get yogurt, cheese, bread and other food here,” When Iris picks up food, she often shares it with neighbors who can’t access services themselves due to health or mobility challenges.
“Everyone’s friendly, they remember your name, and it feels welcoming. Even if staff don’t know the answer, they’ll help you find a solution. Thrive makes sure people like me and my neighbours don’t go without.”

For more information, call 204.772.9091
Support Our Free Market!
To donate food or explore food security partnership opportunities, contact [email protected]



Thrive’s Free Food Market is available on Wednesdays for individuals and families who are actively accessing Thrive programs or services.
How to Access the Market
- Registration is required through the Connection Hub.
- Participants must be connected to Thrive services or programs.
- No walk-ins.
- The Free Food Market is not an emergency food service.
For more information about eligibility and registration, please speak with a Thrive staff member during your next visit.
Need Food Right Away?
If you are experiencing an immediate food emergency, please contact one of the following community resources:
- Harvest Manitoba
- Agape Table
- Siloam Mission
- Main Street Project
- Winnipeg Salvation Army
- 1JustCity
Please note: Food availability varies from week to week and participation in the Free Food Market is not guaranteed until registration has been confirmed through the Connection Hub.
We believe food support should be rooted in dignity, choice, and community connection.
Our Choice-Based Market moves beyond the traditional food hamper model by allowing individuals and families to select the foods that work best for their household, dietary needs, culture, and preferences.
This market-style approach helps reduce food waste, increases access to nutritious and familiar foods, and creates a more welcoming experience for community members accessing support. It also recognizes that people are the experts in their own lives and deserve the ability to make choices about the food they bring home to their families.
