About The Kitchen

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 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 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 4,500 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.