Beyond Food

Community supports to help address needs beyond food: including training, programs, and workshops

Edmonton food bank team member presenting to a group

Beyond Food Program

How it works

What the program offers

Beyond Food offers a range of practical programs including job readiness, job search techniques, resume building, digital and financial literacy, income tax clinics, safety certification guidance (first aid, WHMIS, and others), workshops like Understanding the Canadian Work Culture, and more.

Who it's for

Beyond Food programming is open to anyone in Edmonton who is looking to strengthen their employment prospects and/or financial footing. If you think the program could help you, please reach out.

How it's different

Food insecurity is a symptom of poverty. The Beyond Food Program is intended to help individuals who are unemployed or underemployed. By combining skill based training, a variety of workshops, with navigation and guidance, Edmonton's Food Bank helps participants build practical tools that last.

Our Beyond Food Donors

Together, we support people experiencing poverty and connect them with the resources they need to enjoy a greater quality of life and reduce reliance on emergency food support over time.

Edmonton Community Foundation
Scotiabank
TD
CIBC
ATB
RBC

Upcoming Workshops

Explore a world of opportunities through our Beyond Food program.

Call to Register Now!

Note: Registration in advance is required for most courses

NOVEMBER
Beyond Food Events

Check out our upcoming presentations, workshops, and certificate programs! Offerings change monthly, so be sure to check in regularly!

Our Beyond Food program offers assistance in a variety of areas such as, but not limited to, finance, computer skills, career foundations, janitorial training, tax services, and MORE!

Nov 19, 2026 · +1 more date
Gloved hand cleaning a window with a squeegee.

Janitorial Course

Join us for a 2-day Janitorial Training course to help participants learn practical cleaning skills and workplace safety.

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View details for Janitorial Course
Nov 23, 2026 · +4 more dates
Two men in a workspace: one reads documents, the other smiles while using a computer.

Career Foundations

Build the skills and confidence to find employment through the Career Foundations course.

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View details for Career Foundations

Beyond Food Program Areas

Drop in for a one-on-one session or call us to register for a workshop. We’re here to help!

Literacy

Conversational English sessions and support with reading and writing. Digital literacy sessions and learning opportunities.

Employment preparation

Practical support to help you find and keep work: resume and cover letters, interview practice, employer connections, job fairs, and workshops.

Financial literacy

Tools to help you manage money and access the benefits you're owed. Includes free tax clinics, money coaching, financial literacy, fraud prevention, and Ask-A-Banker.

Practical resources

Connections to services for your broader needs: system navigation and advocacy supports. Opportunities to earn safety tickets and referrals to other helpful resources.

Recognizing needs and mobilizing partnerships

Food is often just the beginning. Research showed that around 70% of people accessing the food bank weren't connected to other community supports that could help them. Rather than duplicating services that already exist, we brought them in: partnering with community agencies and volunteers to offer practical programs.

Beyond Food programming is free and open to participants in Edmonton. They're designed to meet people where they are and connect them to resources that can make a lasting difference.

Programs and workshops are available at Edmonton’s Food Bank Annex at 11434 120 St NW. Most are by appointment; please call 780.425.2133 ext. 228 to get started.

Our Beyond Food Collaborators

By working in partnership, we optimize skills and expertise, reducing duplication of efforts. Some collaborators work on-site while others handle referrals, ensuring seamless service. Our success is made possible thanks to their invaluable support!

Edmonton Community Foundation
TD
Pals
EPL
Goodwill
Larcc
Catholic Social Services
Parallele
E4C
Newcomer Centre

Participant feedback & stories

“Thank you for seeing the humanity in every person who seeks your help. Thank you for being the hands and feet of compassion in Edmonton. And thank you for programming that is beyond food!”

Beyond Food Participant

“I came to Canada from Sudan and needed help understanding and entering the Canadian workforce. Beyond Food program specialists were beyond helpful and knowledgeable! I completed my standard First Aid and WHMIS tickets and found a new, higher-paying position in a matter of weeks!”

Imamu

Beyond Food Participant

“I’m grateful for the support I received from Beyond Food during a challenging time, as it helped ease financial pressure for my family. The kindness, dignity and respect shown by the team gave me reassurance, allowing me to focus on finding employment.

Beyond Food played an important role in my finding employment. Your service makes a real difference to people in the community.”

Pauline

Beyond Food Participant

“I am happy to share that I am currently employed and have been working for the past six months.

I sincerely appreciate all the assistance, guidance, and training you provided me as part of my job search. I am very grateful to every member of the Beyond Food team for the support.”

Youssouf

Beyond Food Participant

Frequently asked questions

Still have a question?

If your question isn't answered here, reach out to our team at 780.425.2133 ext. 228!

or email us

Questions about Beyond Food?

If your question isn’t answered here, call us at 780.425.2133 ext. 228 or

email us