Hello Sharing Place Community,
As summer unfolds, I hope you’re savouring every moment and connecting with loved ones. I’m about to embark on a camping trip with friends and family—a much-needed break from the screen and a chance to create lasting memories. As I prepare to unplug, I’m reminded of the profound importance of community and connection in our lives.
As we enjoy the sunshine and outdoor activities, I’m also reminded that not everyone is fortunate to have a supportive network of friends and family. Social isolation is a growing concern affecting many in our community. The Surgeon General of the United States has sounded the alarm, declaring loneliness and isolation as the #1 public health crisis of our time. The statistics are staggering—socially disconnected individuals face heightened risks of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and even premature death. The impact is equivalent to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day!
So, why is a Food Centre Director talking about social connection? The answer is simple: food insecurity and social isolation are deeply intertwined. Many who struggle to make ends meet also find themselves disconnected from community and support networks. At The Sharing Place, we are committed to changing that narrative. Our commercial kitchen, food bank, school fuel programs, and advocacy work are designed not only to tackle food insecurity and poverty but also to foster a sense of belonging and connection.
We strive to create a positive and supportive environment for everyone who accesses our services and for our team of nearly 200 volunteers. In our staff meetings, we regularly discuss strategies to better support and engage with our members and volunteers. The Sharing Action Team, which emerged from one of these discussions, provides a platform for members to come together, share experiences, and advocate for relevant issues. We invite members who access food assistance to volunteer, helping them build social connections while giving back. For socially isolated seniors, our Meals-4-Change cooking crew offers a chance to forge friendships and develop culinary skills. Feedback from local schools highlights how having breakfast and lunch foods available helps students socialize and engage with each other, a vital aspect that was lost during the pandemic and is now being joyfully restored with the support of our School Fuel program. Additionally, we recently invited a community partner into our kitchen; Empower Simcoe ran a program that not only taught culinary skills but also fostered social connections among participants. In addition to offering access to nutritious food, we are deeply committed to supporting and connecting people.
We are also profoundly grateful for the support of our community donors and partners. Your contributions enable us to extend a web of connection and support well beyond our immediate efforts and into the broader community.
With that in mind, we invite you to join us for a meaningful opportunity to connect at our Harvest Hoedown on September 27th. Details on tickets and sponsorship opportunities are below. It promises to be an evening of local food, libations, live music, and great company. We would love for you to attend!
Let’s make a conscious effort to reach out to those around us—a phone call, a text, or a simple invitation to share a meal. Together, let’s build a culture of connection and community.
Thank you for being a valued part of The Sharing Place community. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can create a brighter future for all.
Warm regards,
Chris Peacock
