The Canstruction fundraiser is on at Conestoga Mall in Waterloo. It showcases creative sculptures made entirely of non-perishable food items. The goal is to raise awareness about the root causes of hunger in Waterloo Region.
Teams of volunteers from different business and schools worked late into the night to build 15 structures containing more than 32,000 pounds of food.
“We actually started a few months ago creating the design. We came up with a concept idea, and then we went ahead and designed the drawings and today’s the day we’re finally here designing it and putting it all together,” Justin Kelly, a Conestoga College student, explained Friday evening during setup.
The food will be donated to the Food Bank of Waterloo Region.
“Canstruction is such a great kick start to all of our spring campaigns. With more than 32,000 pounds of food being collected at this event, that actually is only a week’s worth of supply at the food bank,” said Wendi Campbell with the Food Bank of Waterloo Region.
“We’re distributing more than three million pounds of food a year,” Campbell said. She said 250 food hampers are handed out each day.
“The need continues to be consistent in Waterloo Region... and the need for the community to support those who are having trouble making ends meet,” Campbell added.
The creations will be displayed at the mall over March Break. The public can vote for their favourite design by making a cash donation.
“For every dollar that we raise we can provide three meals in the community,” said Campbell.
