Petrolia food initiative earns top Ontario prize in BASF Growing Home program
A community focused food initiative in Ontario has received support through a national agricultural support program sponsored by BASF. Petrolia Community Refrigerator was named the first-place winner in Ontario under the 2026 Growing Home with BASF program, earning a $25,000 award for its work in addressing food insecurity.
The Growing Home with BASF program encourages public participation by allowing Canadians to vote for local organizations that make a positive difference in rural communities.
Voting took place from April 1 to April 17 and included organizations from Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. The program aimed to strengthen rural Canada by supporting grassroots initiatives.
In Ontario, three organizations were selected as finalists. Petrolia Community Refrigerator secured first place and the top prize of $25,000. Norwich District Curling Club achieved second place and received $10,000, while Beamsville Scouting earned third place with a $5,000 award. Each organization demonstrated strong community involvement and meaningful local impact.
“It is an honor to be nominated, and selected by BASF, and receive votes (of support) from the people of our community (and beyond). Placing first is a measure of the importance of providing free food to those in our community that face food insecurity,” said Petrolia Community Refrigerator.
Petrolia Community Refrigerator focuses on providing free and respectful access to food for individuals and families facing challenges. Community leaders shared that the funding would help deliver thousands of meals, making a lasting difference for people in need. The recognition also reflects strong public support and community pride.
Growing Home with BASF is a cornerstone community program of BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada. Each year, BASF invites its grower and retail partners to nominate organizations that contribute to rural wellbeing. In 2026, more than 570 nominations were submitted, and only 12 organizations advanced to final voting across four provinces.
The success of these Ontario winners shows how collaboration between agriculture, businesses, and communities can create meaningful change.
Photo Credit: BASF-Growing-Home