Get inspired by Quebec’s very own SuperFoodHeroes

2.3 kilograms per week. That’s how much the average Canadian household has been generating in organic food waste since the onset of the pandemic, which is an increase of 13.5%. While many flocked to the stores and began panic buying large quantities of food, there were a few Quebecers who decided to take a different approach.

Last August, we hosted our SuperFoodHero contest on social media where we asked you to nominate someone you know who’s gone above and beyond to help their community stay healthy and happy with access to food during these trying times. And the responses we got blew us away. 

Whether you’re looking for a feel-good read or a little inspiration for your New Year resolutions, see how Quebec’s top five SuperFoodHeroes (including our SuperFoodHero contest winner, Chantal St-Cyr!) found new solutions to reducing food waste while making an impact in their community. 

Shaina Hayes

Shaina grew up on a cattle farm in the Gaspésie before moving to Montréal where she's been involved in the city’s student-run and community farms for over a decade. This year, Shaina used her background in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and worked tirelessly to build her own Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm. 

“When pandemic struck, she was ready to serve her friends and the community at large with a sustainable food basket program made up of produce that she lovingly harvested with her own hands,” said her friend and nominator, Liz. 

Shaina’s drop-off and pick-up locations helped to promote small and struggling businesses in Montreal, promoting a self-sustaining ecosystem just like the ones she farms.

“Shaina has an infectious passion and pure love for things that grow, and takes great pride in working to strengthen and solidify local food systems—a vital measure for sustainable growth in these trying times,” said Liz.  

Rollande Laquerre

Rollande volunteers multiple times a week with Meals-on-Wheels to deliver hot meals to the elderly living in retirement homes, a cause that is near and dear to her heart. But her dedication goes well beyond the day-to-day actions of delivering food to those who need it most. 

“She gives her energy, time, heart and beautiful personality to support the community’s most vulnerable people,” said her daughter and nominee, Mylène. “She’s incredibly empathetic, dedicated and respectful. She may not have a lot of money, but she’s rich in good deeds.”

Chantal St-Cyr

Chantal was the grand prize winner of the SuperFoodHero contest! She’s a Metro supermarket employee and lives with her husband and three kids—all of whom are actively involved in their community in Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade. 

“Chantal is a ray of sunshine!” said Hélène, Chantal’s friend and nominator. “She regularly brings food to the community fridge—a gesture of great heart and generosity.”

Kim Reid

Kim is the founder of On Rock Community Services, a nonprofit in Pierrefonds that serves as a food bank, school lunch program, and community diner. 

“On Rock has been there for so many individuals over the years,” said Ashley, Kim’s nominator. “I'm always amazed by what they're doing when I see their updates on my Facebook feed.” 

Jude Noel

Jude has been volunteering with Entraide Bénévole de Ste Adèle’s Meals-on-Wheels non-stop since the onset of COVID-19 in March, delivering hot meals and a positive presence to the community’s most vulnerable. 

Chantal, Jude’s wife and nominator, said “more than 200 meals per week are prepared and delivered, with the help of volunteers like Jude.”

If you know someone who’s a SuperFoodHero, celebrate them by sharing their amazing story with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag #superfoodhero.