A University of Guelph student-led organization is one of 15 finalists for the David Suzuki Foundation’s Future Ground Prize. 

MealCare Guelph has been selected as a finalist for the prize, which highlights citizen-led initiatives that benefit the environment and local community. 

Since its founding in 2019, MealCare Guelph volunteers have packaged hundreds of kilograms of leftover meals from U of G kitchens and donated them to community partners across Guelph, including the Royal City Mission, the CSA (Central Student Association) Student Food Bank and the Drop-In Centre. 

MealCare also operates a community fridge in the University Centre that provides the U of G community with access to free food with no questions asked. 

This is the second time MealCare Guelph has been a finalist for the Future Ground Prize, following a nomination in 2021. 

A jury of environmental leaders and youth activists will review the finalists and choose a winning initiative for the grand prize. Members of the public may also vote for their favourite initiative for the People’s Choice Prize.  Voting takes place from May 16 until June 13. 

Both the Future Grand Prize and People’s Choice Prize will be announced on Wednesday, June 22. A third prize for initiatives from young people between the ages of five and 14, called the Rising Star, will be announced at the same time. 

The winner of the grand prize will receive $5,000, a private virtual meeting with David Suzuki and an invitation to present to Suzuki and the public at a virtual event in June. The winner of the People’s Choice Prize will receive $2,500 and will also attend the virtual event.