At the HSCA we believe in the power of collaboration and community. HSCA’s ability to make a meaningful impact in our community is deeply rooted in the partnerships we’ve cultivated with other organizations. Today, we want to shine a spotlight on Fresh Routes as part of our Community Partner Spotlight series.
Fresh Routes Mobile Grocery Store is set up at HSCA every Monday (except stat holidays) from 4 to 6:00 pm, providing our community with access to more affordable produce. Everyone is welcome!
What is Fresh Routes?
Fresh Routes is a non-profit social enterprise dedicated to bringing fresh and healthy fruits and vegetables directly to communities through our mobile grocery store. Our mission is to ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food, regardless of where they live or their economic situation.
What Makes Fresh Routes special?
What makes Fresh Routes truly special is our unwavering commitment to the communities we serve. We don’t just deliver food; we build connections. By visiting neighbourhoods directly, we lower the barriers to food access and foster a sense of belonging and community. Our markets are more than just a place to buy groceries—they are a place where neighbours connect, relationships are built, and conversations flourish.
We pride ourselves on being friendly, inclusive, and approachable. Every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen community ties and support one another. Our work is driven by a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the communities we serve, and we are dedicated to making a positive impact every day.
Inspiration Behind Fresh Routes
What inspires us at Fresh Routes is the resilience and strength of the communities we serve. Every day, we see the positive impact that access to fresh, nutritious food can have on people’s lives. It’s incredibly inspiring to witness the bonds that form, the stories that are shared, and the support networks that grow in our markets.
We are driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to healthy food, regardless of where they live or their economic situation. This mission fuels our dedication to breaking down barriers and creating inclusive spaces where people can not only find the food, they need but also connect with others and build a stronger, healthier community together.
Seeing the smiles on people’s faces and knowing we are making a tangible difference keeps us motivated and passionate about our work every single day.
Community Building Stories
…We [at Fresh Routes] have many heartwarming stories about community building, but [a notable one] … is from our regular market visits to a senior community centre.
At this centre, many of the seniors have limited mobility and face challenges accessing fresh, nutritious food. When we started bringing our mobile grocery store to their neighbourhood, it was clear that it wasn’t just about providing food; it was about fostering a sense of community.
One of our regular customers, Maria, shared how our visits have become a highlight for her and her neighbours. They look forward to our arrival not only because they can purchase fresh produce but also because it gives them an opportunity to gather, chat, and connect with each other and with our team. Over time, we’ve seen friendships blossom among the seniors.
This experience reinforced our belief that food access is just one part of the equation. By being present in the community, we help to build a supportive network where people feel valued and connected. It’s these moments of connection and the relationships that form which truly embody the spirit of community building at Fresh Routes.
What do you enjoy most about the Hillhurst Sunnyside community?
What we enjoy most about the Hillhurst Sunnyside community is its vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. The sense of belonging and mutual support among community members is truly inspiring. People here are genuinely friendly, and there’s a strong emphasis on building connections and supporting one another. Whether it’s through local events, markets, or simply daily interactions, the community spirit is palpable. Being part of Hillhurst Sunnyside feels like being part of a big, welcoming family, and it’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to such a positive and engaged community.
Click here to the Hillhurst Community News home page for the latest Hillhurst community updates.
Click here to the Sunnyside Community News home page for the latest Sunnyside community updates.
