At a time when hunger challenges communities across Canada, one local leader’s quiet dedication to feeding those in need has earned a rare royal tribute.
Kawartha Food Share General Manager Ashlee Aitken, who has spent more than a decade fighting food insecurity, was awarded the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal at Feed Ontario’s annual conference in Oshawa on Monday.
Aitken earned the honour for her significant contributions to the community, a criterion for the medal established to mark the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III on May 6, 2023.
The award, presented among fellow food bank leaders from across the province, was a surprise nomination by Feed Ontario and Food Banks Canada.
Aitken says it’s been a tough stretch over the last few months, and receiving the award serves as a reminder that Kawartha Food Share’s work isn’t going unnoticed.
The King Charles III Coronation Medal, designed by the Canadian Heraldic Authority and manufactured by the Royal Canadian Mint, is the first Canadian honour to feature the Canadian Royal Crown approved by The King. It recognizes individuals who have made a meaningful impact in Canada or within a specific province, territory, region, or community, or have achieved distinction abroad in a way that brings recognition and pride to the country.
Aitken’s recognition highlights her leadership at Kawartha Food Share, where she has spearheaded efforts to provide healthy, nutritious food to those in need. Reflecting on her 11-year tenure, Aitken emphasized the collective effort behind the organization’s success.
Aitken highlighted the community’s spirit as a cornerstone of Kawartha Food Share’s impact, particularly during annual events like the Loonies on the Street fundraiser at Christmas.
The medal, which features a crowned effigy of King Charles III on one side and the Royal Cypher with the Canadian Coronation emblem on the other, serves as a tangible reminder of Aitken’s commitment to food security. Yet, for her, the real reward lies in the work itself.
As need continues to grow, Aitken remains focused on innovative solutions to address food insecurity, crediting her team and the Peterborough community for making a lasting difference.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
