As food banks across Canada face record demand, one cyclist is taking on a 7,000-kilometre challenge to help make a difference.
Eric Paton, adventurer, author, and recently retired partner, is cycling from British Columbia to Nova Scotia to raise $500,000, enough to provide one million meals through Food Banks Canada. More than three weeks into his journey, Paton has covered over 3,100 kilometres and recently passed through Manitoba on his coast-to-coast trek.
Eric Paton takes time for a quick pic before getting bike into his ride.
His ride comes at a time when food insecurity continues to affect millions of Canadians. According to recent national data, nearly 9.8 million Canadians, including 2.4 million children, lived in food-insecure households in 2025, representing roughly 24 per cent of the population. Food bank use has also surged,
The situation is particularly challenging in Manitoba. More than 61,000 Manitobans accessed a food bank in March 2026, according to Harvest Manitoba, while approximately one in four Manitobans experiences some level of food insecurity, a rate above the national provincial average.
Paton’s ride is helping shine a spotlight on the growing need while encouraging Canadians to take action. Although he is now roughly halfway through his journey, supporters can still contribute to his fundraising goal and follow his progress across the country.
To donate or track Eric’s ride, visit the Food Banks Canada campaign page and follow his journey on Instagram at @ericlivesthedash.
