Feeding Communities and Fostering Connection: The Impact of Feed It Forward and Pay-It-Forward Initiatives

In a city where food waste and food insecurity are pressing concerns, Feed It Forward is making a significant impact by addressing both issues at once. Founded by Chef Jagger Gordon in Toronto, Ontario, the organization operates Canada’s first pay-what-you-can grocery store, bakery, and cafeteria. Feed It Forward rescues surplus food from suppliers, farmers, and retailers—food that would otherwise go to waste—and redistributes it to the community.

At the heart of Feed It Forward is its pay-what-you-can model, which allows customers to pay what they can afford for groceries and meals, ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious food regardless of their financial situation. The organization’s food rescue efforts divert surplus food from waste, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. Feed It Forward also encourages community involvement, inviting volunteers and locals to participate in its operations, helping to foster a sense of belonging and support.

By creating a space where everyone is welcome, Feed It Forward helps break down social barriers related to poverty and food insecurity. The communal setting of the grocery store and cafeteria encourages interaction, helping reduce feelings of isolation for those facing financial difficulties.

Feed It Forward is part of a broader movement, with similar pay-it-forward initiatives emerging across Ontario. For example, restaurants in the Ottawa Valley are donating meals to those in need, fostering a sense of generosity and community spirit. A growing trend of free meal programs in Ontario sees patrons contributing to a pay-it-forward system, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hot meal regardless of financial circumstances. At Joe’s Diner in St. Mary’s, customers can purchase meal vouchers for others, reinforcing bonds of community and support. These efforts align with National Pay It Forward Day, an international movement that encourages acts of kindness, contributing to a broader culture of goodwill and connection.