As the giving season begins, the Ottawa Food Bank is honoured to announce a historic $2.5 million donation from longtime community builders Franklin Holtforster and his wife, Birgitte Alting-Mees. Their multi-year commitment — the largest in the organization’s four-decade history — will provide $250,000 annually from 2025 to 2035, helping nourish families and individuals across Ottawa.
The couple’s generosity supports the purchase and distribution of food through our network of nearly 100 community agencies, while also helping address the root causes of food insecurity. Franklin and Birgitte have been dedicated supporters of local charities for more than 15 years. Before this gift, they quietly donated to the Ottawa Food Bank. This time, they chose to go public — to inspire others to give.
“Birgitte and I support the Ottawa Food Bank because no one should have to choose between food, warmth, and shelter,” said Holtforster. “When you give consistently, you create momentum. You become part of a collective force that can shift what’s possible.”
To celebrate the power of community, a new mural designed by local artist Dave Lafreniere of Mural Magic will be unveiled at our warehouse. The artwork will honour the generosity and collaboration that keep the organization moving forward.
Sadly, food insecurity is rising across Canada, as highlighted in Food Banks Canada’s new national report. With 98% of its funding coming from the community, the Ottawa Food Bank depends on long-term commitments like this to sustain vital services and invest in long-term solutions.
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