Project DASH and Haven on the Queensway Expand Food Access in Toronto

With the rising cost of living, there are more and more people in our communities who need better access to food and necessities. In Toronto alone, nearly 20% of residents lived in food-insecure households in 2021.

This week, at Etobicoke’s Haven on the Queensway, DoorDash joined with Deputy Mayor Amber Morley to discuss how Project DASH helps broaden food access to address the ongoing need in their local community. Launched by DoorDash in 2018, Project DASH helps empower food banks, food pantries, and other social impact organizations to deliver charitable food to people experiencing food insecurity, by providing DoorDash logistics to power the delivery of groceries and other essential items.

Haven works with Dashers and uses DoorDash technology to provide more access to items from Haven’s food bank, especially for people who face transportation or other barriers. Just like any other dash, Dashers pick up and transport items from the distribution site to the community members in need, and recipients receive updates via text message throughout the process.

“With Project DASH, the food and necessities that people need can be delivered right to their doorstep. It’s a game-changer when it comes to reducing stigma and increasing access for so many with mobility or transportation challenges. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with DoorDash to support more people and families than ever,” said Aretha Khaloo, Director of Operations, Haven on the Queensway.

Project DASH works because of organizations like Haven, which deeply understand the needs of their communities. Project DASH first partnered with Haven on the Queensway in 2022, providing food to seniors who are unable to travel and for their First Care program for new mothers in need of essential items. We’re proud to celebrate more than 1,200 Project DASH deliveries of food and essential goods to seniors and new and expecting mothers.

“As part of our mission to empower local economies, we’re proud to help broaden food access and expand access to critical resources in Toronto and across Canada. Our partnership with Haven on the Queensway helps reach more people experiencing hunger in a way that reduces stigma and upholds dignity,” said Shilpa Arora, General Manager, Canada, DoorDash.

Project DASH has made a profound impact on the communities it reaches, according to a recent study by the Urban Institute, which found that the home delivery program alleviated organizational capacity challenges, reduced stigma and enhanced convenience for clients by connecting hard-to-reach populations with charitable food. Project DASH has powered over 5 million deliveries across the U.S. and Canada with more than an estimated 80 million meals delivered.