This is a difficult and unpredictable time for many businesses, including restaurants, suppliers, and foodservice employees.

As our society deals with the unpredictability of the COVID-19 crisis, we would like to take time to share what we will be doing to help combat the challenges of this pandemic.

Fee Deferment

We understand that this is a challenging time for our members. With this in mind, we will be deferring our fees for the 2020 year. We typically invoice members and suppliers on May 1 each year, but given the unprecedented situation before us, we will be deferring this charge until a later date that will be decided as more information about this situation becomes available. We will contact our members directly once a deferral date has been set, and this page will be updated with dates and information as it becomes available.

Supporting Our Members

As our members deal with a challenging hit to their businesses, we encourage members of the public to continue to support the restaurants and businesses that make our communities vibrant and sustainable in any way they can. Whether through the purchase of take-out meals, gift cards or other available merchandise, please continue to support the local restaurants that you would typically frequent and enjoy.

According to a recent study completed by Restaurants Canada, many are considering closing down permanently as a result of COVID-19. There has been a call to the government to designate specific funds to support the Canadian restaurant industry. We second this call, and also ask members of our network to continue their individual support however possible.

We would like to extend our gratitude to all of the restaurants and suppliers who continue to operate to help keep our communities, especially those working in essential services, fed and supported. We are grateful for our members, who continue to serve the public while also keeping the environment and sustainability at the front of their minds. We feel so lucky to be connected to you through our network, and we will continue to support you through this crisis.

To make purchases that support our members, please visit their websites or call them directly.

Workplace Practices

LEAF is an organization that is run on a volunteer basis. Our board members, alongside additional part-time staff, support this initiative as volunteers alongside full-time jobs, schoolwork, and other commitments. While we do not have a physical office, we have encouraged our team to work from home, avoid unnecessary contact with those around them, and ensure they are maintaining a high level of personal hygiene. Our team has always run from a remote workspace, and this will continue amidst this crisis.

We also extend our gratitude to our board members who continue to support our organization while also currently working full-time on the frontlines of this crisis as members of the health industry.