When Uxbridge Walmart Store Manager Penny Pick-Quibell was only seven years old, her life was forever changed. Her dad, their family’s sole provider, passed away just before Christmas.
“Waking up on Christmas morning to no toys and very little food was a stark introduction to the harsh realities of life. It was difficult for me to understand why Santa didn't come that year,” shared Penny. “As a child, I couldn't comprehend the full extent of our loss.”
Later that day, something truly magical happened.
“Angels from the food bank and the church appeared at our doorstep, bringing boxes of food and gifts.” Their kindness and generosity lit up our home and filled our hearts with hope.”
This was Penny’s first experience with being food insecure.
Penny’s mom worked tirelessly to find a job to support their family and they eventually reached a place of stability. Her mom’s strength, resilience, and determination became a source of inspiration and comfort.
In her role as a Store Manager at Walmart, Penny now shares her story with customers and associates to encourage them to donate to Fight Hunger. Spark Change. each year.
“My personal experience with food insecurity has made food bank charities incredibly important to me. I understand firsthand how crucial these services are to our communities, especially for children,” explained Penny. “I want them to understand that food insecurity can affect anyone, and their contributions can make a world of difference.”
Give today, change tomorrow. Help Walmart Canada and Food Banks Canada reach their goal of providing 10 million meals in 2025
From Feb. 20 to Mar. 19, Walmart Canada’s annual Fight Hunger. Spark Change campaign is raising much-needed funds for Food Banks Canada, which connects over 5,500 food-related organizations nationwide, supporting Canadians who make 2 million visits to food banks monthly of which 33 per cent are children.
Food bank usage is at historic levels and this year’s goal is to provide 10 million meals in 2025. To kickstart the campaign, Walmart Canada donated $1 million. Customers can also support the campaign by:
- Adding a donation to their Walmart.ca order.
- Rounding up their in-store purchase to the next dollar and donate the difference.
- Dropping off non-perishable food at a Walmart store.
The Fight Hunger. Spark Change. campaign is a key part of Walmart’s global effort to provide meals for those in need. Along with raising awareness, it encourages Canadians to take action, make a difference and support their communities.
Since the campaign started in 2017, Walmart Canada, its suppliers, and its customers have provided over 107 million meals, adding to the 75 million pounds of food Walmart has donated to food banks.
Each of Walmart’s more than 400 stores and distribution centres across Canada is also paired with a local food bank, ensuring all funds raised stay within the community.
Ending hunger is a team effort. Together with our associates, customer and suppliers, Walmart Canada is dedicated to helping Canadians access healthy and nutritious food.
