I love eating fresh food. If you know me, or have been following my adventures thus far, I am a huge advocate for trying out new restaurants and expanding my knowledge when it comes to fine cuisine. Although, I love to spend money on new dining experiences, some people in Toronto, unfortunately cannot afford the means to do so. That being said, I have partnered up with Scotiabank to spread awareness and raise money for Second Harvest.
When I was approached to be the ambassador for the organization, I could not have been more excited. If you don’t already know, Second Harvest is Ontario’s largest food rescue organization that prevents surplus fresh produce, dairy, and meat obtained from restaurants and groceries from going to waste. They “rescue” these perishable items and make healthier meals for those that cannot afford the costs of nutritious dining. If you think about it, places such as Whole Foods or other outlets that sell fresh, organic alternatives can be very expensive. Second Harvest recognizes this economic disparity and levels the playing field to ensure every person in Ontario has access to healthier living.
The Toronto-based organization has made strides since 1984. Not only have they made 34,000 meals daily from rescuing 140 million pounds of food (2016), the charity is also recognized for their environmental impact in addition to programs that aid skill developments in youth and young adults. The charity prides itself with helping reduce carbon emissions and greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere and also operating after school initiatives (partnered with the YMCA) to teach cooking classes to several youth. Second Harvest does more for the community with lasting long-term results besides just making meals from excess materials for short-term benefits.
These are just a few ways Second Harvest is impacting the city. As of last year, they have partnered with large corporations and several social service agencies to further strengthen their mission. However, more work needs to be done in order to bridge the gap between healthy, fresh food and those that can afford them. That being said, I urge you to participate in the Second Harvest Hero Raffle partnered with Scotiabank. By purchasing a raffle ticket (or several), you will have the chance to win 1 of 12 luxurious prizes that include a trip to an exclusive Mayan Riviera Resort (a $7,000 prize already including airfare), a trip to anywhere around the world (valued over $7,000), a luxury suite to a Blue Jays or Raptors Game (valued over $4,000 which includes signed merchandise and meet-and-greet with the players), and a grand prize worth over $8000 for a round trip to Sandal’s Grande St. Lucia. The prizes are pretty huge for a raffle so why not get involved?
Tickets are on a first come first serve basis and are going fast. 3 tickets for $25 and 10 tickets for $80 - the more you purchase, they higher your chances to win one of the prizes. To obtain tickets, feel free to message me your full name, along with your address, phone number, email and the amount of tickets you choose to purchase. Once I have received your payment, tickets will be mailed out and you will be automatically entered in the raffle on March 29.
As I mentioned before, Second Harvest is a great initiative to promote health and wellbeing across Ontario. As many people result in selecting sedentary lifestyle habits due to costly food, Second Harvest ensures that every Canadian’s personal determinants of health are achieved.
Candidly,
Jonah
