TORONTO, June 10, 2026 /CNW/ – 407 ETR has announced a $1 million donation to Daily Bread Food Bank as part of its ninth annual One Big Day employee volunteer initiative. The event engaged more than 400 employees in support of 21 community organizations and non-profits across Brampton, Mississauga, Vaughan, and surrounding communities.
Growing Impact Since 2017
Daily Bread Food Bank has been a partner of One Big Day since its inception in 2017, when 70 employees participated in the inaugural event. This year, the same number of volunteers worked onsite at Daily Bread alone, sorting food. Over the years, One Big Day has expanded significantly, now involving over 400 employees and supporting a diverse range of organizations, including youth and women's shelters, conservation groups, seniors' homes, and food banks.
Addressing Food Insecurity
Jose Espinosa, President & CEO of 407 ETR, emphasized the importance of community service. “One Big Day has always been about coming together to make a difference and rolling up our sleeves to serve our communities. This year, in addition to our team's volunteer efforts, we're proud to make a meaningful financial contribution to help address the urgent issue of food insecurity. With one in 10 Torontonians relying on food banks, our $1 million donation to Daily Bread will help expand access to food for individuals and families across the city.”
According to Daily Bread, demand at its member food banks has surged by 348 per cent since 2019. To meet this need, the organization now spends approximately $29 million annually on food purchasing, up from $1.5 million before the pandemic.
Community Support and Gratitude
Neil Hetherington, CEO of Daily Bread Food Bank, expressed gratitude for the partnership. “Food insecurity in Toronto has reached a level we haven't seen before, with more families turning to food banks just to get by. We're grateful to 407 ETR for their partnership and incredible generosity. At a time when costs have become overwhelming, this support will help thousands of people across our city put food on the table and ease some of the pressure families are facing.”
Naima Khan-Hew, Human Resources Program Manager and One Big Day lead at 407 ETR, highlighted the enduring spirit of the initiative. “Working with partners like Daily Bread and seeing our team show up year after year is what brings One Big Day to life. Nine years in, that energy and drive to make a difference in our communities is stronger than ever.”
Previous Contributions
This donation marks 407 ETR's second transformative gift to combat food insecurity. During the pandemic, the company directed a $4 million donation to United Way Greater Toronto toward food and income security, seniors, and mental health. Earlier this year, 407 ETR also announced a $5 million contribution to Runnymede Healthcare's PTSI Centre of Excellence, supporting Ontario's first dedicated mental health facility for first responders, and a $7.5 million investment in the Toronto Metropolitan University School of Medicine.
Key Statistics
- One in 10 Toronto residents rely on food banks.
- One in five food bank clients (22%) spend all their income on housing, leaving nothing for food and other necessities.
- Demand at Daily Bread's member food banks has increased by 348% since 2019.
Learn more about how 407 ETR is supporting the community through its various initiatives.
