Winkler & District
Food Cupboard

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Who is the Food Cupboard for?

The Winkler Food Cupboard exists to “provide free groceries (hampers) to individuals & families in desperate need living within the GVSD catchment area”. This means that hampers are meant for people who would otherwise struggle to feed themselves or their families without it. This could be people who have just arrived in Winkler, or people already living here whose circumstances have changed due to illness, loss of work, etc.

Who is the Food Cupboard NOT for?

It is not meant as a service to all newcomers to Winkler, only those who are in serious need financially.  It is also not meant as a way for families to reduce their food bills to spend on other things.

Our service is meant to be temporary, providing support until individuals can achieve self-sufficiency.

Who is eligible for assistance?

There is no set income level to qualify.  People may be working or unemployed. The only criterion is genuine need, where the individual or family would not otherwise be able to afford to buy enough food.

Please note, this service is exclusively for residents of the GVSD catchment area.

How often and how long may I access the Food Cupboard hampers?

Hampers are designed to help with short-term, emergency needs; however, in some cases the need may be longer-term.  You are allowed to attend the Food Cupboard every two weeks at most.

Do I need an appointment?

Each visit to the Food Cupboard requires an appointment. Please call us at 204-325-0257 on Monday or Tuesday to make your appointment if you require food. Time slots are available 9am - 11am and 2pm - 5pm.

Where does the food come from?

The majority of available food items are purchased by the food cupboard or donated by the community. 

What is Food Rescue?

Edible food is collected from various businesses and redirected as quickly as possible to non-profit organizations in the community. The Food Rescue program is a collaborative initiative that works in partnership with the Winkler & District Food Cupboard and Central Station. Food Rescue Items that are redistributed at the food cupboard are not guaranteed to be available and are considered to be “in addition” to the regular hamper. 

Is transportation available?

You may request a ride to the food cupboard at the time you book your appointment. Rides are available in limited quantities for each time slot so booking early is recommended. 

Breakfast and Snack

There is often a hot breakfast or a afternoon snack provided during food cupboard hours. This food is offered based on what is available to us at the time. We ask that you treat the staff and volunteers with kindness and respect and keep in mind that we are not able to offer a menu like that of a restaurant.