At Axis Insurance, giving back isn’t just something we do—it’s part of who we are. This year, we expanded our efforts to tackle food insecurity across Canada by partnering with Food Banks Canada. Building on our long-standing support for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank (GVFB), this partnership helps provide essential food access to individuals and families nationwide.
Every December, our team comes together for a donation drive. Employees contribute generously, and Axis Insurance matches every dollar raised. This holiday season, we raised over $22,000, including a $10,000 corporate donation, and a matching $10,000 from Northbridge Insurance. These contributions helped to provide over 40,000 meals to Canadians in need.
The need has never been greater. In March 2024, food bank visits across Canada surpassed two million—a 90% increase from just five years ago. Rising food costs continue to strain household budgets, with grocery prices expected to increase by another 2.5% to 4.5% this year, adding up to $700 to the annual grocery bill for a family of four.
While our roots with GVFB remain strong, we’re proud to expand our impact, ensuring more communities get the support they need. By working with Food Banks Canada, we’re helping strengthen resources where they’re needed most—because no one should have to worry about their next meal.
Why Food Banks Canada and GVFB Matter
Food insecurity is a nationwide issue, and organizations like Food Banks Canada and the Greater Vancouver Food Bank (GVFB) provide critical support where it’s needed most. Every month, food banks across Canada serve hundreds of thousands of people, ensuring access to nutritious food and essential resources. The GVFB alone supports over 16,000 individuals each month and distributes millions of pounds of food annually—about 60% directly to individuals and the rest through local community agencies.
Food insecurity now affects nearly 17% of Canadians, a sharp rise from previous years. More people than ever are relying on food banks, not just those experiencing unemployment but also working families struggling with the rising cost of living.
With thousands of volunteers and partner organizations, Food Banks Canada and GVFB are strengthening Canada’s food system and expanding access for those in need. For Axis, this partnership goes beyond fundraising—it’s about driving meaningful change and standing with organizations that share our values of community, resilience, and care.
The Power of Every Contribution
Every dollar raised and every hour volunteered strengthens food banks’ ability to serve communities across Canada. While we typically match employee donations, this year, we took our commitment further. Axis Insurance contributed $10,000, and Northbridge Insurance matched it—more than doubling the impact of our initiative.
Food banks don’t just provide emergency relief; they are also working toward long-term solutions. Many now offer wraparound services, including nutrition education, skills training, and partnerships with local farms and businesses to secure fresh food. Investing in these initiatives helps create a more sustainable food system and reduces reliance on food banks in the future.
Our roots with the GVFB remain strong, and expanding our partnership with Food Banks Canada allows us to support food security on a national scale. Local or national, every contribution matters. Supporting food banks isn’t just about giving—it’s about investing in long-term solutions that create lasting change.
Building a Stronger Future Together
Food Banks Canada and the GVFB ensure that every contribution fuels meaningful change. Their missions align with our belief that no one should have to choose between paying bills and putting food on the table.
We’re proud to support their work and encourage others to get involved. Whether through donations, volunteering, or raising awareness, every effort helps strengthen the fight against food insecurity. At Axis Insurance, we’re committed to building a more resilient and sustainable support system—because communities thrive when everyone has access to the resources they need.
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Lesley Woodruff
Vice President, Human Resources
I’m Lesley Woodruff, Vice President of Human Resources at Axis Insurance. With over ten years of experience in HR, I’m passionate about nurturing our company’s most valuable asset – its people. I started as a Receptionist/HR Assistant and have grown with Axis, eventually focusing solely on HR as part of the Senior Management Team.
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