Ready to Support Kawartha Lakes in Wake of Ice Storm

Kawartha Lakes, ON – In the aftermath of the recent ice storm that swept through the region, the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes (CFKL), Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes, and Kawartha Lakes Food Source are working closely together to assess community needs and provide essential support to residents during  recovery.

While the storm’s immediate impact was felt by all—toppled trees, power outages, and disrupted routines—the full effect on vulnerable residents is still unfolding. The coalition of local organizations is closely monitoring signs of strain on food security, and other essential services.

“Community Care continues to be actively engaged in supporting the health and well-being of residents across Kawartha Lakes during this recovery period,” said Ryan Alexander, CEO of Community Care. “We want our community to know that we are here to help. Specifically, we want to make sure that our community is food secure in the wake of the ice storm, we encourage anyone who may be struggling to reach out.”  CCCKL offers over 40 programs and services that are designed to build healthy communities through care and support.  Through their Meals on Wheels program, Community Care wants to ensure that even in times of crisis, our neighbours experiencing challenges continue to receive the nourishment they need by having meals available in the freezer.

“Even after the power is restored and the roads are cleared, the impact of a storm like this can linger—especially for families already living on the edge,” said Trina Connell, Board Member of Kawartha Lakes Food Source. “We’re noticing increased anxiety around food security, and we want people to know they’re not alone. Our community always pulls together, in times of need.  If you need help, please reach out—and if you’re able to give, now is the time. Together, we can make sure every neighbor is cared for.” 

Kawartha Lakes Food Source provides a wide range of essential items—including nutritious food and personal care products—to a network of member organizations in the City of Kawartha Lakes. By coordinating large-scale sourcing, storage, and distribution, Kawartha Lakes Food Source helps ensure consistent access to essentials, especially during crises.

To ensure our community can respond quickly and effectively—both now and in the future—the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes (CFKL) has launched an Emergency Response and Recovery Fund. The fund is designed with the long view in mind, recognizing that while immediate needs like food insecurity must be addressed, recovery is often a long road. Much like an savings account for the community, it’s a way to set aside resources today so we’re ready for whatever tomorrow brings—whether that’s rebuilding infrastructure, offering mental health support, restoring livelihoods, or strengthening local resilience in the face of future challenges.

The KLCFDC and the Glen Orloe Wright Fund have stepped forward as organizations and community members deeply connected to the Kawartha Lakes region and who wanted to make a difference that’s both immediate and lasting.

CFKL has a strong track record of administering emergency relief and recovery grants, backed by trusted partnerships with community leaders and its engaged board of directors.

“This is about neighbours helping neighbours,” said Laurie Dillon-Schalk, Executive Director of CFKL. “This fund will help us direct support to initiatives helping those who need it most.”

In addition to contributing to the Emergency Response and Recovery Fund, residents are encouraged to give directly to Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes and Kawartha Lakes Food Source—two local organizations on the front lines of food access and support services.

Together, these organizations form a united front against the long-term impacts of emergencies, ensuring that the most vulnerable residents in Kawartha Lakes are cared for, supported, and not forgotten.

About Kawartha Food Source:

KAWARTHA LAKES FOOD SOURCE is a not-for-profit distribution centre which supplies food and personal care items to member organizations that provide support to individuals in need. Kawartha Lakes Food Source provides a wide range of essential items—including nutritious food and personal care products—to a network of member organizations in the City of Kawartha Lakes. By coordinating large-scale sourcing, storage, and distribution, Kawartha Lakes Food Source helps ensure consistent access to essentials, especially during crises.

For more information, visit www.kawarthalakesfoodsource.com or contact Kawartha Lakes Food Source at (705) 324-0707 or Info@kawarthalakesfoodsource.com

About Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes:

CCCKL offers over 40 programs and services that are designed to build healthy communities through care and support. The organization offers food and nutrition program, senior and caregiver support, wellness programs, health and dental services, hospice services, transportation services, and more. As a volunteer-driven organization, CCCKL relies on a strong network of volunteers and donors to continue its mission of care. CCCKL is supported by more than 350 active volunteers that are crucial in delivering programs and services for clients in Kawartha Lakes. This year CCCKL is celebrating our 40th year of providing care in Kawartha Lakes.

For more information, visit www.ccckl.ca or contact Community Care at 705-324-7323 or AskUs@ccckl.ca

About the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes:

The Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes is a catalyst for local impact and lasting change. We connect generous donors—individuals, families, and businesses—with the causes that matter most to them, creating lasting legacies that strengthen our community today and for generations to come. Through strategic granting, we support a wide range of initiatives in social services, health, education, arts & culture, the environment, agriculture, infrastructure, and community economic development. With a commitment to both donor intent and community need, we help build a vibrant, resilient Kawartha Lakes for all.

Learn more at www.kawarthafoundation.ca or reach out to us at 416-738-4716 or info@kawarthafoundation.ca.

For media inquiries

Contact:  Laurie Dillon-Schalk, ED, Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes

Laurie@kawarthafoundation.ca or reach out to the above organizations.