Community Contribution Model

Contribute what you can, when you can

Introducing a new way to give and receive at The Depot.

To continue addressing food security in our community, The Depot is introducing the Community Contribution Model, a sliding-scale pricing system, that reflects our commitment to equity, accessibility, and sustainability. By the end of 2025, The Depot will have applied the community contribution model to all programs.

What is the Community Contribution Model?

The Community Contribution Model is a sliding-scale pricing system. This means participants can contribute what they can afford for the services they receive. This helps support The Depot’s financial sustainability so we can continue to offer quality programs and services to the community for years to come.

Why add a Community Contribution?

We’re introducing the Community Contribution Model in response to the growing demand for our programs and to strengthen our ability to serve the community. This model will provide important recurring revenue to help us continue to broaden and deepen community support while maintaining access for those who need it most.

This model will help us:

  • Meet growing demand
  • Strengthen sustainability
  • Promote equity
  • Foster community support

While we estimate that the Community Contribution Model will help cover 5% of our costs, our programs remain heavily subsidized through our fundraising efforts and the support of our donors and funders.

 What to Expect from our Community Contribution Model?

Participants will answer a questionnaire and be shown a sliding scale with suggested amounts based on what they can afford.

  • Based on the scale, participants can choose how much to pay at each visit—no questions asked.
  • Payments can be made by cash, credit, or debit.
  • If participants cannot pay the minimum amount, they can discuss options with staff members.

The Community Contribution Model will apply to our Resto meals and Marché baskets beginning April 2, 2025, at the following prices:

Everyone who visits The Depot is required to pay at least at the blue contribution level.

How it Works for Participants:

  1. Check-In Annually
    1. Once a year (and during registration), participants will fill out a simple questionnaire to better understand their current situation.
  2. Receive Follow-Up Info
    1. Participants will receive, by email, information about available programs and resources and a suggested contribution level based on their responses to the questionnaire.
  3. Choose Contribution Level
    1. During a visit to The Depot, participants provide their name or Depot #!D and use a tablet to select their contribution amount.
    2. Participants are free to adjust their contribution at every visit, based on their situation.

Privacy & Flexibility

  • Contributions will always be confidential.
  • If participants cannot pay the suggested amount, they can select the minimum—no questions asked.
  • If participants cannot pay the minimum, they can speak to staff.

This model builds on the foundation of support provided by volunteers, donors, and funders, giving us the infrastructure to introduce innovative models like this one and the flexibility to meet the unique and changing needs of our community.


Community Contribution FAQ

It’s a sliding scale system where you can contribute what you can afford for meals, emergency food baskets, and other programs. This helps The Depot continue offering quality services while keeping them accessible for everyone.
The Community Contribution Model allows us to:
  • Meet the growing demand for our programs.
  • Make sure everyone can afford services based on their situation.
  • Support The Depot’s sustainability so we can continue serving the community.
There is a required minimum price, $2 for Resto Meals: and $5 for Marché Baskets. You’ll also see suggested contribution amounts based on your ability to pay, but you can choose what makes sense for you every time you visit, no questions asked. Over the next 12 months, this community contribution model will also be applied to other programs like our Collective Garden and Community Kitchens. Prices will vary depending on the program.
The Community Contribution Model begins on April 2, 2025. After completing your check-in (online or in person), you’ll receive an email with instructions on how to participate. All new participants will complete the check-in when they register for programs or on their first visit.
 
Only the minimum price is required. If you cannot pay your suggested contribution every time, you can pay the minimum amount, no questions asked. If you can’t pay the minimum price, you are invited to speak to a staff person.
If you’re unable to pay the minimum, please talk to a staff member. We’ll ensure you can still access the services you need.
Unfortunately, no. A minimum payment is required to participate in the meal program. If you can’t pay, a staff member can help you explore other resources.
Unfortunately, no. Volunteering cannot replace payment for meals or baskets, but volunteering is key to The Depot’s work and helps keep our programs of such high quality. We’d love to have you volunteer with us!
Unfortunately, no. The amount of food remains the same, regardless of how much you pay.
  • Kids under 12 receive a free portion.
  • Children must always be accompanied by an adult.
We use a universal minimum and sliding scale to respect the diverse needs of participants, regardless of household size. Larger families don’t necessarily have more financial means.
No, you won’t need to explain anything. We will not ask you for proof of income. During the check-in, we’ll ask some simple questions about your financial situation to better direct you to the programs and services that fit your needs. You choose your contribution level—no questions asked.
No, you can adjust your contribution every time you visit based on your current situation.
After a quick annual check-in, you’ll receive an email with suggested contribution levels. When you visit The Depot, you’ll use a tablet to select your contribution amount.
You can adjust your contribution each visit based on your current circumstances. If you cannot afford the minimum, talk to a staff member for support.
You will be able to pay in cash, or with a credit card, or debit card.
Once a year, we’ll ask you to answer a few simple questions about your situation. This helps us recommend a contribution level and ensure we’re meeting your needs.
You’ll need proof of address (e.g. a phone or utilities bill with your address), and identification for each household member.
Yes, your information is confidential. No one else will know how much you contribute. You can read through our Privacy Policy for more details.
The minimum contribution amounts are fixed for now, but The Depot will regularly review the program to ensure it continues to respond to the needs of the community and The Depot.
You can buy up to 8 meal vouchers at a time, but no family packages or bulk discounts are available.
Meal plans may change due to availability. Check the planned menu on our website or look for updates on our TV screens in the program space.
Meal vouchers are per person. Each individual needs their own voucher. Kids under 12 can get a free kids’ portion when accompanied by an adult.
Unfortunately, lost vouchers cannot be replaced or refunded.
Unfortunately, no. To ensure everyone has access, the limit is one meal per person, per day.
Unfortunately, no. Participants are limited to one basket per household, per month.
Unfortunately, no. Portions are the same regardless of payment. You can, however, request a regular or large portion when ordering.
The Community Contribution Model ensures programs remain sustainable and accessible while allowing participants to contribute to the cost of the services they use.
No. Refunds are not available for contributions or vouchers.
The Community Contribution Model will apply to all programs by the end of 2025. The minimum contributions and suggested amounts will vary depending on the program.
You can:
  • Use the suggestion box at the front desk (paper and pen available upon request) to leave feedback.
  • Submit feedback online.
  • Speak to a staff member during manager hours.