“When I spoke to people about my vision, I began to see that there are many people who have the heart to serve, but simply need a platform to give of their time and resources.”

– Seema David, Founder

How We Got Started

5N2, founded by Seema David in 2013, is a charity committed to providing fresh, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food to marginalized communities in the Greater Toronto Area, particularly Scarborough. Seema, who immigrated to Canada from India in 2007, was moved by the widespread homelessness and food insecurity she witnessed, inspiring her to take action.

Starting with a small team of volunteers in her church’s kitchen, Seema’s mission soon outgrew the space, leading her to lease a commercial kitchen funded by modest donations. The pandemic presented significant challenges, but 5N2 adapted by shifting to a delivery model, ensuring meals and pantry items reached those in need despite reduced volunteer numbers.

Faced with the loss of her kitchen lease, Seema worked tirelessly to find a new location, ensuring the charity could continue its essential work. As demand for food support surged due to rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis, 5N2 scaled its efforts to meet the needs of the most vulnerable.

Currently, 5N2 distributes 4,200 free meal portions and grocery support each week, helping thousands of families and individuals across the region. The charity’s mission is to ensure no one in the community goes hungry, especially as 1 in 8 families in Scarborough face food insecurity, often forced to choose between meals.

Seema’s dedication to her community is a powerful testament to the impact of grassroots initiatives in addressing critical social issues.  It has also inspired many community members to volunteer their time and passion to eliminate food insecurity.  Pictured below is a representation of some of the volunteers.  Also shown is 5N2’s Chef Raymond Ledesma.

Seema David and 5N2 have received the following honors
    Sept 2024 Command of the King in recognition of your valuable contribution to your country
    March 2023 Continued Work to Serve Those In Need from City of Toronto Councilor Paul W. Ainslie
    Sept 2021 Scarborough North Hero Award
    June 2022 Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
    June 2021 Scarborough Hero Award from the City of Toronto
    August 2021 Scarborough Heroes Award from Premier Doug Ford
    Paul Harris Fellow Award from Rotary Foundation of Rotary International
    Frontline Impact Greater Toronto Area from Second Harvest

Who We Serve

We are dedicated to reducing hunger and food insecurity in Scarborough. What began as a simple soup kitchen has evolved into a comprehensive multi-service organization. In collaboration with various partner organizations, we now provide healthy meals and grocery support to local residents. Our services reach food banks, soup kitchens, shelters, seniors’ residences, drop-in centers, and Toronto Community Housing (TCH) apartment buildings.