A Happy Thanksgiving for Canadians in Need

Turkey Farmers of Canada Partners with Food Banks Canada

TORONTO , Oct. 8 /CNW/ - Food Banks Canada is pleased to announce a partnership with Turkey Farmers of Canada (TFC) to assist families in need during this Thanksgiving period. After a difficult year for many Canadians, TFC is providing turkeys to thousands of Canadian families just in time for Thanksgiving . Recognizing the strain on food banks across Canada during the economic downturn, and wanting to help as many families as possible continue to enjoy a family tradition, TFC will be funding turkey purchases for member food banks, particularly those hardest hit in rural Canada .

"We're pleased that our Board of Directors unanimously approved this partnership", said TFC Chair, Mark Davies . "We look forward to supplying nutritious, high quality turkey to those assisted by food banks across Canada ". TFC's contribution was augmented by some Members of their organization adding to the overall donation. The Turkey Farmers of Ontario and Manitoba Turkey Producers added additional funds, and Maple Leaf Foods complemented the contribution by adding turkeys to the cause.

Turkey is an excellent source of protein and provides energy which is a factor in normal growth and development". Katharine Schmidt , Executive Director of Food Banks Canada , stressed "the need for nutritious foods that fit with Canada's Food Guide are in top demand for Canadians seeking help from food banks". Schmidt went on to say, "our member food banks are thrilled with this donation, which will give many Canadian families a chance to celebrate Thanksgiving after what's been a year of hardship for many".

More than 700,000 Canadians - including families, seniors and students - turn to food banks in an average month and of these, 37% are children. Rural food banks make up nearly half of food banks in the country. The Turkey Farmers of Canada will continue to partner with Food Banks Canada through 2010 to assist communities in need.

For further information: Food Banks Canada, Marzena Gersho, [phone] x. 28, email: [email protected]; Turkey Farmers of Canada, Phil Boyd, [phone], email: [email protected]