“I extend my sincere congratulations to the Board, staff, and volunteers of Community Care of St. Catharines & Thorold on achieving accreditation through Food Banks Canada’s Standards of Excellence. This accomplishment reflects a deep commitment to accountability, professionalism, and compassionate service, and reinforces Community Care’s vital role in supporting our most vulnerable residents.” – St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe.
News from Community Care of St. Catharines & Thorold
Posted January 30th, 2026 on Niagara At Large
St. Catharines, Ontario — Community Care of St. Catharines & Thorold is proud to announce it has achieved national accreditation through Food Banks Canada’s Standards of Excellence Program.
Over the past two years, Community Care’s Board of Directors, leadership team, and staff undertook an involved and highly detailed organization-wide process. This reflected the size of the agency and the magnitude of services it provides, to meet the highest national standards for food bank accreditation.
While strong structures and systems were already in place, increased volumes of need and evolving food security requirements made the path to accreditation challenging, enlightening and rewarding, ultimately strengthening the organization’s practices and service delivery.
Picking up donations for Community Care’s food banks.
This comprehensive effort ensured that all aspects of governance, food handling, operations, and client service meet rigorous standards of professionalism, accountability, and legislative compliance. The achievement reflects the dedication and leadership of Community Care’s team, who work each day to ensure neighbours across St. Catharines and Thorold receive food that is safely handled, stored, and distributed with dignity and respect.
“I extend my sincere congratulations to the Board, staff, and volunteers of Community Care of St. Catharines & Thorold on achieving accreditation through Food Banks Canada’s Standards of Excellence,” said St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe.
“This accomplishment reflects a deep commitment to accountability, professionalism, and compassionate service, and reinforces Community Care’s vital role in supporting our most vulnerable residents.”
Betty-Lou Souter, CEO, Community Care of St. Catharines & Thorold
“Achieving this accreditation is a significant milestone for Community Care,” said Betty-Lou Souter, CEO, Community Care St. Catharines & Thorold. “It reflects strong governance and the dedication of staff and volunteers who serve our clients with dignity and purpose. For community partners and supporters, it provides assurance that their trust and generosity are being stewarded responsibly as we respond to growing needs.”
About Food Banks Canada and the Standards of Excellence Food Banks Canada provides strategic leadership to food banks across the country, working collaboratively to relieve and prevent hunger and address the root causes of food insecurity. The
Standards of Excellence provide a national framework for strong client service, responsible food operations, and safe food handling, reinforcing accountability and continuous improvement.
This accreditation strengthens Community Care’s role in building a more resilient and effective food banking system and advancing toward a Canada where no one goes hungry.
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