As food bank usage reaches unprecedented levels across the country, a nationwide initiative is turning everyday dining into meaningful support for those facing food insecurity. Throughout February, Canada Beef is running its Burger It Forward campaign, which transforms burger purchases into direct donations for Food Banks Canada.
How the Campaign Works
For every feature burger sold at any of the 357 participating restaurants across Canada, Canada Beef will donate the equivalent of one meal to Food Banks Canada. The campaign has set a maximum donation cap of 20,000 meals, creating a substantial potential impact during a month when charitable giving often declines after the holiday season.
Addressing Record Food Bank Need
The campaign launches against a backdrop of alarming statistics. According to Food Banks Canada, March 2025 saw nearly 2.2 million visits to food banks nationwide—the highest number ever recorded in Canadian history. This represents a doubling of need over just six years, highlighting the growing crisis of food insecurity affecting communities from coast to coast.
"The need for food banks has doubled in six years, and despite ongoing challenges, Food Banks Canada continues to meet growing demand," said Kelly Hyde of Canada Beef in a recent statement. "Canada Beef is proud to support that effort through Burger It Forward."
Alberta's Significant Participation
In Alberta specifically, 103 restaurants are participating in the campaign, offering specially created feature burgers that will trigger donations with each purchase. The initiative has gained particular momentum in the province, where additional support is being provided through partnerships with local agricultural organizations.
Additional Provincial Support
As part of the broader campaign, Alberta Beef Producers is making separate $1,000 donations to both the Calgary Food Bank and Edmonton's Food Bank. This additional funding will help these critical organizations address local needs while the national campaign provides broader support through Food Banks Canada's network.
A Simple Way to Make a Difference
The Burger It Forward campaign offers Canadians a straightforward way to contribute to food security efforts while enjoying a meal out. Rather than requiring separate donations or special fundraising events, the program integrates charitable giving directly into everyday consumer behavior.
This approach represents an innovative model for corporate-community partnerships, where businesses leverage their products and customer relationships to address pressing social issues. For restaurants participating in the campaign, it provides an opportunity to demonstrate community commitment while offering customers a meaningful dining experience.
As February progresses, the campaign aims to reach its maximum donation of 20,000 meals, providing substantial support to food banks during what remains one of the most challenging periods for food security in recent Canadian history.
