Touchdown for the Community: Rabba and Good Shepherd Ministries mark 10 Years of game day giving

Annual Game Day dinner supports Toronto’s homeless with warm meals, winter essentials and a new 75” TV

TORONTO, February 5, 2026 – As millions of Canadians gather this Sunday to watch the big game with family and friends, the community at Good Shepherd in downtown Toronto will also come together for a special celebration. Supported by Rabba and its Rabba Roots Community program, guests will enjoy a warm festive meal to mark the program’s 10th anniversary, a milestone that has become a significant source of pride and joy for the Good Shepherd community.

“Our guests can rely on a hearty meal from us every day,” says Adrienne Urquhart, Director of Fundraising and Public Relations at Good Shepherd Ministries. “But on this night, our overnight guests will experience an added sense of belonging and community—something many of us enjoy regularly with family and friends. Through our partnership with Rabba Roots, guests will come together over good food and fellowship to enjoy game night. We’re deeply grateful to Rabba not only for the food, but for the care and thought behind it.”

In total, Rabba and its partners will provide meals for over a hundred men during the game, along with thousands of snacks and meals to support the shelter in the weeks following.  The donation features burgers, wings, pizza, fries, onion rings, beverages, soups, dessert as well as fresh produce, and dairy products.  This collaborative effort is between Rabba and partners including McCain Foods, Lassonde, Maple Leaf Foods, Pizzeria Libretto, Conagra, Wonderbrands and others.  Beyond game night, the group of partners will also deliver sweet and savoury snacks, condiments and pantry staples to help stock the shelter’s kitchen.  

“Year after year, our partners show up in a generous and heartfelt way to join us in this statement of care for our neighbours in need,” says Rick Rabba, president of Rabba Fine Foods. “This is much more than just a meal or watching a game, it’s about showing these men they are an important, remembered part of our community.”

“We’re happy to participate in this annual tradition in support of the Good Shepherd,” says Robert Santos of McCain Foods. “Our mission is to help Canadians connect through food, and gathering as a community to watch the big game is something we hope everyone can enjoy. Thank you to Rabba Roots for coordinating this great team effort.”  

Keeping to its tradition of going beyond food, Rabba has donated 500 winter hats and 250 pairs of gloves, as well as a new 75” television and sound system, provided in partnership with Adapt Media, to adorn the Good Shepherd’s main dining hall. The new setup creates a welcoming shared space for residents to gather year-round. 

“At a time when homelessness and food insecurity impact so many people across our city, we’re honoured to offer this moment of respite,” said Rick Rabba. “Reaching the 10-year milestone is incredibly meaningful. What started as a simple meal has grown into a deeply rooted tradition for our team and partners.”

The Good Shepherd Ministries remains on the front lines of the city’s crisis, serving between 900 and 1,100 meals every day to Toronto’s most vulnerable residents.  

Good Shepherd Ministries in Toronto will host the 10th annual Game Day party for shelter guests in partnership with Rabba and its community giving program. The celebration will feature a newly donated 75” TV to enhance the big-game experience, along with thousands of snacks and meals provided by Rabba and select partners, including more than 110 meals served to guests during the game on February 8, 2026.

For more information on the work of Good Shepherd Ministries, or to make a donation, please visit goodshepherd.ca

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