$100,000 OTF Grant from the Province has helped to boost Food Security at Harvest Algoma

Sault Ste. Marie, ON – The Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre (SSMIC) has successfully completed a year-long project funded by a $100,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the provincial
government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The initiative, which ran from April 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025, has strengthened the long-term sustainability of Harvest Algoma through digital transformation, strategic planning, and new community food initiatives.

“With the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, we’ve been able to strengthen how Harvest Algoma operates and serves our community,” said David Thompson, VP of Programs at SSMIC. “The new systems and training supported by this grant have positioned Harvest Algoma for long-term success as an independent organization.”

Through OTF’s investment, the project: Developed a digital food-tracking platform, the Harvest Food Hub, to better quantify food rescued and distributed across the Algoma District with assistance from SSMIC’s ACORN Information Solutions Division; Provided professional development and mentorship for staff and volunteers in digital tools, food hub management, and leadership; Supported the creation of Harvest Algoma Inc., officially incorporated on September 5, 2025, marking a major milestone in the organization’s path to independence and sustainability; and Expanded local food access through a partnership with the Sault Ste. Marie & District Social Services Administration Board, delivering Mobile Produce Markets that increased access to fresh, affordable produce in the community.

Since January 1, 2025, the new tracking system has recorded 488,608 lbs of food rescued through Harvest Algoma’s network of retailers and food-rescue partners, and 408,322 lbs distributed to community agencies and food banks across the Algoma District. Harvest Algoma, operated by SSMIC during its transition period, repurposes over 500,000 lbs of food annually to support more than 60 local non-profits, including food banks, shelters, schools, and Indigenous organizations. The Ontario Trillium Foundation’s support has helped lay the groundwork for stronger governance, better data systems, and innovative community programming that will continue to serve people facing food insecurity.

“The Foundation’s investment modernized how we work and measure impact. We’re deeply grateful to OTF and SSMIC for helping Harvest Algoma move confidently into its next chapter,” said Dr. Celia Ross, Chair of Harvest Algoma.

Upcoming Webinar – Streamlining Food Rescue: The Harvest Food Hub App
As part of this digital transformation, SSMIC and Harvest Algoma will host a free webinar on Tuesday, December 9, from 1:00–1:45 p.m. (EST) to demonstrate the new Harvest Food Hub App. Designed for food banks and food resource centres, the app helps simplify food-rescue tracking and reporting. Participants will learn how to log donations and distributions in seconds, generate reports for funders, and reduce administrative time, freeing up more capacity to feed people. Register to learn how your organization can use or collaborate on the platform.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit oft.ca to learn more.