POLARIS ADVANCES IN THE FIGHT AGAINST HUNGER WITH LAUNCH OF THE COMMUNITY CARE UNIT
September 18, 2023
MISSISSAUGA, ON – Sept 18, 2023 – Polaris Transportation Group is responding to climbing hunger rates in their community with the launch of one of their most ambitious charitable efforts yet, the Polaris Community Care Unit (CCU).
Sharing the UN Sustainable Development Goal of achieving Zero Hunger in the future, Polaris’ new initiative is aimed to eliminate food insecurity across the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding communities by helping local food banks, soup kitchens and shelters meet increasing demand. Due to rising costs of groceries and housing, Ontario has seen 24% annual increases in the number of families and individuals (now nearly 588,000) relying on food assistance programs. These organizations are receiving up to 403,000 visits every month and need more help than ever with replenishing their inventories to feed the hungry.
Polaris President and CEO, Dave Cox comments, “Polaris has always been a company that puts people first. We are in a fortunate position to take matters into our own hands, give back to our community and uplift those in need around us,” He adds, “The Community Care Unit allows us to honour our family values and our sustainability goals to make a difference in the fight against hunger.”
On a monthly basis – and twice a month during holiday seasons – the company will be purchasing a wide variety of essentials and high-nutrient foods for people of all ages, ranging from baby formula and healthy options for children to soft foods for seniors. In their dedicated Community Care Unit van, Polaris volunteers will be delivering these goods to organizations including Food Banks Mississauga, Barrie Food Bank, Hamilton Food Share, Daily Bread Food Bank, Orangeville Food Bank, Guelph Food Bank and the Guelph Student FoodBank.
Dr. Audrey Jamal, Assistant Dean (Strategic Partnerships and Societal Impact) of the University of Guelph’s Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics, highlights the impact of Polaris’ Community Care Unit, “Polaris is leading the way by turning their sustainability commitment into action. Food insecurity is an issue that affects so many communities and this act of generosity will bring some relief to those who can’t afford their next meal.”
The company encourages anyone who is interested in supporting the Polaris Community Care Unit or knows of a cause they can help to contact their team at CCU@polaristransport.com or call 905.671.3100 x 1219.