Back Left to Right: Nihalsingh Mahida, Eric Oranika, Gaylene Flannery
Middle Left to Right: Paul Eilers, Myrna Bisson, Joseph Angeles, Kumar Sharma
Front Left to Right: Shirley Gibson, Alex Prokhoro
Photo credit: Amber Vandale Torrance
The Valleyview Co‑op Food Store in Virden has made a significant contribution to local food‑security efforts, donating $2,000 worth of Kraft products to the Virden and Area Food Cupboard. The donation was made possible through Kraft Heinz’s national Groceries for Good program, which partners with grocery retailers across Canada to deliver food directly to community food banks.
The contribution comes at a time when food‑bank usage is rising across the country. Cory Dittmer of Kraft Heinz says the need has never been greater. “Canadian food bank usage is at an all‑time high with more first‑time users than ever,” he said. “At Kraft Heinz, we are committed to standing by Canadians and our customers by making a positive impact in communities by partnering with Food Banks Canada.”
At the local level, Valleyview Co‑op’s Virden Grocery Store team played a central role in coordinating the donation. Led by store manager Lorne Gryjack, the team ensured the Kraft products were delivered efficiently and directly to the Virden and Area Food Cupboard. Gryjack credits the success of the project to the dedication and teamwork of his staff, who helped move the donation from planning to delivery.
Joseph Angeles unloads KD cases from truck.
Photo Credit: Amber Vandale Torrance
Valleyview Co‑op General Manager David Wowk says the initiative highlights the power of collaboration. “Programs like Groceries for Good show what’s possible when national partners, local teams, and supportive communities come together,” he said. “I’m proud of our Virden Food Store grocery team for turning this $2,000 Kraft product donation into meaningful support for the Virden and Area Food Cupboard, and grateful to our community for always stepping up when it matters most.”
For the Virden and Area Food Cupboard, the donation arrives at a critical time. Demand for food hampers continues to grow, with volunteers preparing 40 to 50 hampers twice a month. Coordinator Shirley Gibson says the donation will make an immediate impact. “It’s wonderful to have this much food; it certainly helps us fill our shelves,” she said.
Valleyview Co‑op says it remains committed to supporting organizations that strengthen the health and well‑being of the communities it serves. Partnerships with companies like Kraft Heinz allow the Co‑op to extend its reach and help ensure families in the Virden area have access to the food they need.
