In an effort to alleviate child hunger in Saskatoon, Canpotex is making a contribution to the Saskatoon Food Bank that will span the next three years.

Deborah Hamp, Saskatoon Food Bank Director of Operations and Engagement, says 41 per cent of food bank users are under the age of 18. Canpotex’s donation of $450,000, or $150,000 for each of the next three years, will fund a new initiative called Food for Kids, which is three separate campaigns happening in July, October and February each year.

The first campaign is called Fresh Fruit For Kids and focuses on giving Saskatoon children nutritious produce. The second campaign will be aimed at collecting infant formula, and the third for collecting baby food, both products that are in great demand at the food bank. Canpotex will match all donations made by the public up to $50,000 for each campaign.

Hamp says Canpotex has supported the Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre for roughly the last six years, and their increase of support will help children who can no longer be supported by their school’s meal programs during the summer months.