Community the Focus for York United FC Home Opener

April 19, 2024 – Canadian Premier League (CPL)
York United FC News Release

Partnering with York Region Food Network and United Way, the club amplifies prevalent social issues and the crucial work being done by local non-profits.

York United FC has announced a ‘Your Club, Our Community’ theme for their upcoming 2024 Canadian Premier League home opener on Sunday, April 21st at York Lions Stadium (kick-off 4pm).

Partnering with two local non-profits, York Region Food Network and United Way Greater Toronto, the club’s goal is to raise awareness of key social issues currently affecting so many people right across Toronto and the GTA.

Right now, there is a food insecurity crisis, with one in 10 Torontonians relying on food banks. Last year, there were over 3 million food bank visits in the city, and over 185,000 new clients: that’s a fivefold increase compared to pre-pandemic. In York Region alone, 25,000 households are experiencing food insecurity but only one in four are using emergency food services.

York Region Food Network specializes in offering a safe space for those in need, providing services and programs like affordable fresh food markets, Good Food boxes, community breakfasts and cooking sessions.

Some of the York United FC squad have already dropped by during preseason to show off their baking skills, with more collaborations to come throughout the rest of the year.

“The York Region Food Network is so excited about the partnership we have with York United FC,” says Kate Greavette, Executive Director, YRFN.

“We are looking forward to many fun events with the team, having some of the players back in our kitchen preparing food and at our Affordable Fresh Food Markets kicking the ball around with the kids. Sport, like food, is an incredible medium to bring people together and to build community. We are so appreciative of York United FC’s support in helping to bring awareness of the York Region Food Network and the programs and services we provide to families living with food insecurity across York Region.”

Skyrocketing costs are also hugely impacting the everyday needs of an alarming number of people in Toronto and the GTA.

United Way tackles poverty by overseeing a network of community agencies all contributing to local neighbourhoods through various social services, outreach and education.

“United Way Greater Toronto has been working in and with communities in Peel, Toronto and York region for 68 years,” says Daniele Zanotti, President and CEO, United Way…