Mikado renews commitment to Interfaith Food Bank

By Lethbridge Herald on September 3, 2025.

Alejandra Pulido-Guzman
Lethbridge Herald

In honour of their 20th Anniversary, Mikado Electric renewed its Food Bank Guardianship commitment to Interfaith Food Bank for another five years.

In 2020, Mikado Electric became the first founding partner of the “Food Bank Guardians” sponsorship program at Interfaith Food Bank Society of Lethbridge and made a commitment to contribute $100,000 to support food bank food purchases over a five-year period. 

Mike Mikado, co-owner of Mikado Electric, said because the community has been so generous with them, they want to give back.

“This is $100,000 worth of food products over the next five years. We did that for the last five years and we are going to renew it this year.”

He said he believes by doing it that way the most people can benefit from it. And he encouraged other companies to follow suit as the need is unprecedented. 

Danielle McIntyre, executive director of the IFFB, said Mikado’s contribution and renewed commitment is a big deal for the food bank. 

“Our Guardians program is designed for people to help us have some hope and sustainability for the future,” said McIntyre. “Those substantial donations that come in and that commitment over a long period of time helps us to plan and be prepared for our future needs.” 

McIntyre explained that having the guardianship commitment renewed by Mikado Electric demonstrates that they saw the value in the food bank and that they feel like they are making a difference in the community, which is the perfect way to celebrate a 20th anniversary. 

“It gives us a little bit of relief, but is not enough,” said McIntyre. “It’s one of those things where we have to constantly be out there in the community asking for this help, but when you do get a substantial contribution and a commitment like this, it makes you feel like there is a possibility to meet the annual budget each year.”

She added that what she finds inspiring about the Guardians program is the multitude of options it provides to those who want to contribute long term. 

“Guardians can choose to support food purchases, cooking classes, garden programs, or with our delivery fleet, for example,” said McIntyre. “They might align their gifts with their own business and perhaps support our annual budget for managing finances, administration or operating costs, or specific items we need to pay for every year.” 

Mikado Electric has sponsored previous events and activities with Interfaith Food Bank such as Canada Day activities in Galt Gardens and the Annual Charity Dinner and Auction, on top of making regular contributions over the years. 

The food bank encourages those who would like to make a long-term impact on local food security initiatives to reach out to discuss options for planned giving and legacy gift options.