Today we’re spotlighting Vanita, one of our Food Sorting Volunteer Leaders!
After retiring from working as a professional chef with over 15 years of culinary experience, Vanita wanted to make a meaningful contribution to her community, particularly those facing food insecurity.
From a chef’s kitchen to Food Banks Mississauga, Vanita Ashat now volunteers as a Food Sorting Lead volunteer. After learning about Food Banks Mississauga online, Vanita began volunteering in September of last year.
“The food bank is close to my heart,” she says.
“Food is such a simple necessity, yet people are having a hard time. I always donated food when I could, and now I see it with my own eyes where it goes and how many people need it.”
As a volunteer, Vanita leads other Food Sorting volunteers and helps with onboarding and training. Through her volunteering, Vanita has gained invaluable connections with her team.
“It makes me feel really good and I love working with my colleagues… I really feel like I am helping people…”
While volunteering at Food Banks Mississauga is important to Vanita, there was one thing that she learned which surprised her.
“I couldn’t believe so many people in a country like Canada rely on food banks.”
There is a rising need for food banks across Canada, especially in Ontario. Food Banks Mississauga and our network of 60+ food programs provide food to over 56,000 neighbours in need. Mississauga also saw the fastest-growing rate of food bank usage in all of Ontario, with a 58% increase.
With this in mind, Vanita says it’s important to remember that anyone can contribute, no matter the size of the donation.
“I have learnt from the food bank that no donation is small. Just by everyone giving a little, we can feed families and kids in great need.”
During her time as a volunteer, Vanita has had the opportunity to be a part of a variety of campaigns and initiatives with Food Banks Mississauga.
When Vanita is not volunteering, she loves cooking for other people. She also enjoys gardening, travelling, and staying active.
We are so grateful for all of the support and demonstrated leadership Vanita has shown.
Become a Food Sorting Volunteer Leader
If you would like to become a Food Sorting Lead like Vanita, you can learn more and apply today!
